Following Daniel Jones’ release from the New York Giants, his former teammate, Saquon Barkley, offered words of encouragement, while also subtly criticizing the organization. Jones, who had requested his release after being benched in favor of Tommy DeVito, was let go by the Giants due to concerns about a potential injury. The team was wary of triggering his $23 million injury clause for 2025, especially with their season in turmoil at 2-8. As a result, Jones, who still has $12 million remaining on his contract, will go on waivers, though it’s unlikely any team will claim him. After that, he will become a free agent, free to sign with any team in need of a quarterback.
Jones’ six-year tenure with the Giants, after being selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, didn’t meet expectations. He ended his time in New York with a 24-44-1 record as a starter and only one playoff appearance, in 2022. Despite this, the Giants handed him a four-year, $160 million contract, but Jones struggled to deliver on that investment.
Barkley, who played alongside Jones for five seasons before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles, expressed his belief that Jones will find success elsewhere. The two have stayed in touch, and Barkley praised Jones’ work ethic and character, emphasizing that he’s a dedicated player. While acknowledging the difficulties Jones faced in New York, Barkley remains hopeful that his former teammate will get a fresh start and find success, much like Barkley himself has since leaving the Giants.
