The NY Giants dramatically improved Daniel Jones’ supporting cast, but will it lead to dramatically improved results for the third-year quarterback in 2021?
For the NY Giants, 2021 is all about Daniel Jones, and for Jones, his future is tied to making a major leap in his third NFL season.
This offseason, the NY Giants did just about everything the organization could to facilitate such a leap.
One year removed from Jones tossing 10 touchdowns and losing six of 11 fumbles, the NY Giants dramatically improved his supporting cast by signing wide receiver Kenny Golladay, drafting wide receiver Kadarius Toney No. 20 overall, and hoping a year of stability will improve the offensive line play in front of him.
Pro Football Focus lists Jones as the No. 20 ranked quarterback in the NFL, and third among NFC East passers, heading into the 2021 campaign:
"20. DANIEL JONES, NEW YORK GIANTSThis is a big year for Daniel Jones to establish himself as a franchise quarterback, and the Giants are doing everything in their power to surround him with help. Last year, the team had the lowest pass-blocking grade in the league and the eighth-worst receiving grade, but new additions from free agency and the draft should help.This is the first offseason Jones will be in the same offense, which will offer more familiarity going into his third season. Jones must eliminate the boneheaded decisions and turnover-worthy plays that hold the team back. With his toughness and ability to make plays with his legs, Jones can make a big leap forward."
Can new weapons help Daniel Jones make the leap for the NY Giants?
The Giants are banking on a second season in coordinator Jason Garrett’s system, a third season of NFL experience and bolstered supporting cast will catapult Jones into a breakout season.
Golladay, for example, led the NFL in receiving in 2019 and that season Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford produced a 107.9 passer rating when targeting him.
Meanwhile, Toney 14.1 yards per reception last season, and has the speed and explosiveness to make plays either lined up outside or from the slot.
If Jones can eliminate turnovers, and maximize the weapons around him — including the return of Saquon Barkley at running back, the NY Giants could be primed to make big leaps as an organization and Jones as a passer this season.
But, if Jones once again falters, the NY Giants could easily invest their pair of first-round picks in the 2022 NFL Draft on a veteran or moving up to snag one of the top incoming rookies at the most important position in sports.
Regardless, the NY Giants hope that whoever is behind center in 2022 enters the season ranked significantly higher on the preseason expectation lists.
Matt Lombardo is FanSided’s National NFL Insider and writes Between The Hash Marks each Wednesday. Email Matt: Matt.Lombardo@FanSided.com, Follow Matt on Twitter: @MattLombardoNFL