In a significant shift for the New York Giants, quarterback Daniel Jones has been benched after ten games in the 2024 NFL season. This change comes as a part of a new direction being charted by Giants' general manager Joe Schoen, with undrafted quarterback Tommy DeVito stepping up to lead the offense. The decision, described by Schoen as "a football decision," reflects both a response to recent performances and a proactive strategy to rejuvenate the team's competitive spirit.
Daniel Jones, a quarterback who once seemed poised for greatness with the Giants, has faced a roller coaster of a career. Starting with a promising 2022 season, Jones led the Giants to a playoff victory and was even considered for the Comeback Player of the Year award. During that season, Jones accounted for 22 scores, five interceptions, and showcased his athleticism with over 700 rushing yards. The momentum, however, was interrupted dramatically in 2023 when a torn ACL sidelined him after only six games, following a disappointing start with a 1-5 record and seven turnovers.
The aftermath of his injury carried over into 2024, seeing Jones struggle to regain his form. His recent statistics present a stark picture: three wins in his last 16 starts and a passer rating of 79.4, ranking him 32nd among qualified quarterbacks. These metrics, combined with the Giants’ desire to shake things up on the field, have culminated in the decision to try a new starter. Notably, Jones had secured a four-year, $160 million contract extension before the 2023 season, a reflection of the organization's faith in his ability to deliver.
Stepping into the breach is Tommy DeVito, a 26-year-old undrafted quarterback from Illinois. DeVito’s promotion is viewed as an opportunity to inject fresh energy into the Giants' offense. During the 2023 season, he stood in as a substitute starter with a commendable 3-3 record, and his rookie stats included eight touchdowns against three interceptions. His transition from fill-in to the main starter is seen as a gamble worth taking, given the team's current circumstances.
DeVito’s chance to make his mark will come in Week 12 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The expectations are set, and fans will be keen to see how his leadership transforms the offensive strategy under the critical gaze of analysts and enthusiasts who have followed the Giants' fortunes closely.
Alongside this change, the Giants have also secured backup with Drew Lock, who was signed as their No. 2 quarterback this offseason. Lock has already contributed by providing relief for Daniel Jones in two games, and his presence offers a safety net should DeVito need support in the coming matches.
The decision to bench Jones, while initially surprising to some, is aimed at reviving the team's morale and performance. The Giants are striving to reclaim competitive vigor and improve on-field dynamics that have been missing since Jones's injury and subsequent struggles. Schoen’s strategy with DeVito at the helm signifies a move towards building an adaptable and potent offensive force, ready to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving NFL landscape.
Ultimately, the shift reflects an organizational desire to pivot and explore new possibilities with a fresh perspective under Tommy DeVito. As the Giants brace for upcoming games, all eyes will be on how this bold strategic maneuver unfolds, potentially setting the stage for a rejuvenated team outlook.