It’s time for Daniel Jones to show he is capable of being an elite franchise quarterback for the NY Giants
The time for moral victories is over – the NY Giants’ must make the playoffs in 2021 or heads will roll.
Players, fans and even the owners are sick of their legendary franchise slumming it with the NFL’s doormats. In his year-end press conference, team owner John Mara once again spoke on how exhausted he is of losing.
"“I’m tired of sitting up here at the end of the year trying to explain what went wrong and why I feel optimistic about the future,” said Mara. “I want to do it after a winning season.”"
While a successful offseason established a strong core of players for years to come, many high profile members of the the NY Giants roster are entering their endgame. If they can’t perform, they may be wearing different uniforms as early as next season.
Win or lose, stars like Kenny Golladay, Leonard Williams, Blake Martinez, James Bradberry and Adoree’ Jackson are in it for the long haul. Unfortunately, things aren’t so certain for some of their teammates.
Here are 3 NY Giants entering a make or break 2021:
Daniel Jones
Despite the critics, one thing was certain when the NY Giants made Daniel Jones the sixth overall pick in 2019 – it was a picture perfect fit.
The uncanny similarities between him and Eli Manning drew the front office to him – heck, Jones has even developed a ‘Manning face’ when he throws the ball. Add in the David Cutcliffe connection and it’s scary.
Unfortunately for Jones, quarterbacks are expected to perform much earlier than they were in Manning’s days. As the Giants’ signal caller enters year three, his career in New York is on the line.
Dave Gettleman gave himself the ultimate contingency plan in the 2021 NFL Draft – gaining valuable draft capital for the prized 2022 NFL Draft. If Jones doesn’t prove himself worthy, the Giants could start over with a new quarterback next season using their new-found draft picks.
The front office has given Jones everything he needs to succeed this off-season – to the quarterback’s credit, he’s taking the necessary steps as well. He’s shouldered on a huge leadership role this off-season – organizing practices and building relationships with his play-makers.
The Giants love Daniel Jones, but the clock is still ticking – he has to perform this season, or he’ll be replaced.