The “Hard Hit: Holiday Season with the New York Giants” show that debuted earlier this summer confirmed that Giants general manager Joe Schoen is exploring the possibility of acquiring a replacement for rookie quarterback Daniel Jones until the 2024 NFL Draft.
Schoen ultimately took a different tack and spoke out during an appearance on WFAN on Tuesday. “Boomer and Gio” showed about his working relationship with Jones heading into a very important season for the 27-year-old.
“There is no problem with trust,” Schoen emphasized, echoed by ryan chichester of Boldness. “(Head coach Brian) Daboll and I thought all the time that it was all very important to be open and communicate and attack these people decisively. They are grown men. It’s business.”
In particular, the Giants have been heavily linked in pre-draft rumors to North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye, but have reportedly never come close to acquiring the third overall pick. The New England Patriots are holding on to the No. 3 spot to take Maye, while the Giants selected LSU Tigers wide receiver Malik Nabers with the sixth pick in the draft.
Meanwhile, Jones is experiencing a rough return to game action after recovering from an ACL injury in this past Saturday’s 28-10 preseason loss to the Houston Texans. Mike Florio Pro Football Talk later suggested that Jones’ confidence has been shaken by “continuous, open conversation about QB improvements” on display in “a tough hit,” but Schoen appeared unmoved by that opinion.
“We’re telling you,” Schoen continued as he spoke of Jones. “We didn’t want him to be surprised and I wanted to be upfront with him. I think when you’re sincere and communicative and you’re honest, there’s no problem with trust.”
It’s no secret that the Giants could escape Jones’s upcoming offseason contract, and Big Blue could have a reason to reserve a first-round pick in the 2019 draft this fall if it becomes clear the club is a playoff contender rather than a postseason contender. Jones seemingly understands the harsh reality of his situation, and he should get plenty of opportunities this season to prove his worth to the organization, starting with a Week 1 home game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 8 during which he remains healthy.
