Daniel Jones’ demotion to scout team safety has sparked plenty of conversation around the NFL. The $40 million quarterback, who once carried the hopes of the New York Giants, was spotted at practice this week in a red scout team jersey, playing defense alongside practice squad linemen and assistant coaches.
The decision has raised eyebrows, with fans and analysts questioning whether this was a new low in how the Giants are handling Jones’ fall from grace.
Former backup quarterback Ben DiNucci joined the conversation, offering a unique perspective on the situation. DiNucci, who experienced life as a third-string QB, defended the decision as a common practice across the league for quarterbacks who fall out of the top two spots on the depth chart.
Former NFL QB Ben DiNucci explains the realities of life as QB3
DiNucci took to Twitter to weigh in on Jones’ unusual role at practice, writing: "I did this for 3 years. If you aren’t QB1 or QB2 I promise you’re playing scout safety lol. I’m willing to bet 75% of QB3s right now are scout safeties and haven’t touched a ball since training camp."
I did this for 3 years.
— Ben DiNucci (@B_DiNucci6) November 21, 2024
If you aren’t QB1 or QB2 I promise you’re playing scout safety lol
I’m willing to bet 75% of QB3s right are now scout safety’s and haven’t touched a ball since training camp https://t.co/6k5jgVXZdI
DiNucci’s response offered a dose of reality to what many perceived as a humiliating moment for Jones. While the optics of a highly paid franchise quarterback playing scout team defense are jarring, DiNucci pointed out this is standard procedure for third-string QBs across the NFL.
Though DiNucci’s comments provide a broader context, the situation still feels uniquely awkward in Jones’ case. For a quarterback who started the season as QB1 and carries the weight of a $160 million contract, being relegated to scout team defense feels symbolic of the Giants’ ongoing dysfunction.
His tweet also underscores the stark reality of life in the NFL. If you are not the starter or immediate backup, your role on game day and in practice shifts to being a utility player, often filling gaps in drills. For Jones, who has been the face of the franchise since 2019, the transition to this role must feel especially jarring.
This moment also highlights the disconnect between Jones’ contract and his current place within the team. For most third-string quarterbacks, playing scout safety is par for the course. For Jones, it is a glaring reminder of how quickly things have unraveled.
As DiNucci pointed out, Jones is not alone in taking on this role in practice. But given his salary, status, and the expectations that came with his selection as the sixth overall pick, the sight of him lining up as a safety speaks volumes about how far he and the Giants have fallen.
While DiNucci’s insight helps explain the logic behind the move, it does little to change the perception of how poorly this saga has been handled. For Jones, this chapter may be a rite of passage for QB3s across the league, but it is also an unfortunate symbol of the Giants’ ongoing dysfunction.