Daniel Jones is already crossing interested teams off his list

Imagine being the team Daniel Jones won't even go to.
New York Giants v Las Vegas Raiders
New York Giants v Las Vegas Raiders / Ian Maule/GettyImages
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The Daniel Jones sweepstakes are heating up, but the former New York Giants quarterback is being selective about his next move.

After a tumultuous end in New York, Jones is in no rush to join just any team. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Jones has already eliminated a potential suitor from consideration, despite the team’s reported interest.

This decision aligns with Jones’ desire to join a playoff contender and rebuild his career with a franchise capable of competing now. While some teams are willing to offer Jones a chance to start or serve as a bridge quarterback, his sights are set higher.

Former Giants QB Daniel Jones eliminates Las Vegas Raiders from sweepstakes

Schultz broke the news via Twitter, stating: “Sources: Despite interest from the #Raiders, free agent QB Daniel Jones has eliminated Las Vegas from his consideration (contrary to other reports). The former #Giants’ QB is weighing substantial interest from multiple playoff teams and wants to join a postseason contender.”

This development doesn’t come as a shock. The Raiders are currently mired in mediocrity, sitting near the bottom of the AFC standings and with no clear path to a playoff berth this season.

For Jones, the Raiders represent the kind of chaotic situation he’s trying to avoid. His time in New York was defined by dysfunction and instability, with the Giants cycling through coaches, offensive systems, and philosophies during his tenure. Joining the Raiders would risk repeating that cycle, offering little upside for a quarterback seeking redemption.

At 27 years old, Jones is entering a pivotal stage in his career. While he showed flashes of brilliance during the Giants’ 2022 playoff run, his struggles over the last two seasons have left him fighting to prove his value. To maximize his chances of success, Jones needs a stable organization, strong coaching, and a roster capable of competing at a high level.

The Raiders simply don’t check those boxes. Las Vegas lacks the consistency and organizational direction Jones is prioritizing. Meanwhile, teams like the Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens, and San Francisco 49ers have all been floated as potential landing spots. Each offers Jones the opportunity to join a playoff-caliber roster while developing under top-tier coaching and top-tier quarterbacking.

Jones’ strategy seems clear: he’s not just looking for a job; he’s looking for a chance to rewrite his narrative. After years of being labeled a bust, his next destination could make or break his NFL future.

As the market for quarterbacks continues to evolve, Jones' decision could influence how other free agents approach their next moves. While the Raiders may have hoped to acquire Jones as a temporary solution, his choice to decline sends a clear message: he is focused on winning and developing, not merely getting by.

As Jones carefully evaluates his options, one thing is clear: Las Vegas is off the table.

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