The New York Giants are benching quarterback Daniel Jones and will start Tommy DeVito against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. This surprising decision comes as the team seeks to end a five-game losing streak, according to multiple reports.
Head coach Brian Daboll hinted at the possibility of a change after the Giants (2-8) returned from their bye week, following an overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers (3-7) in Germany on November 10.
Daniel Jones, 27, has struggled this season, throwing for 2,070 yards, with eight touchdowns and seven interceptions. He has also rushed for 265 yards and two touchdowns. His record of 3-13 in his last 16 starts has contributed to the Giants ranking last in the NFL in scoring, averaging just 15.6 points per game.
In 2022, Jones signed a lucrative four-year, $160 million contract after leading the Giants to an unexpected playoff appearance in Daboll’s inaugural season. This contract includes a $23 million injury guarantee for 2025, which becomes fully guaranteed if he fails to pass a physical in the offseason.
Unfortunately, Jones’ first year of the deal was marred by injuries, including a torn ACL in November and a neck injury earlier in the season, limiting him to just six games in 2023.
The Giants’ offense has faced challenges over the past few seasons, with an offensive line that struggled last year and has remained inconsistent this season. DeVito, who has been the third-string quarterback throughout the year, is now stepping up ahead of veteran Drew Lock, thanks in part to his understanding of Daboll’s system. Last season, the rookie out of Illinois, known as “Tommy Cutlets,” went 3-3 as a starter after both Jones and backup Tyrod Taylor were sidelined.
With seven games remaining in the season, it is uncertain whether Jones will return as a starter. The Giants currently hold the No. 5 overall pick for the 2025 NFL Draft, which may lead them to consider selecting a new quarterback.
