The New York Giants announced a significant quarterback change ahead of their November 24 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Daniel Jones has been benched, and rookie Tommy DeVito will take the reins as the starter. This decision comes amidst a tumultuous season for the Giants, who sit at 2-8 and have struggled to find consistent offensive production.
The Fall of Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, has faced mounting criticism after signing a four-year, $160 million extension in 2023. Injuries and poor performance have plagued his tenure, including a torn ACL in 2023 and a stat line of just eight touchdowns against seven interceptions this season. The Giants have gone 3-13 in his last 16 starts, leading many to speculate that his time with the franchise is nearing its end.
Head coach Brian Daboll expressed the need for a shift, stating, “We have to evaluate every position to give this team the best chance to win. Tommy has shown promise, and we think he can give us a spark.”
Enter Tommy DeVito
DeVito, an undrafted rookie from Illinois, impressed in limited preseason action and is known for his poise under pressure. Despite being relegated to third-string status earlier this year, he’s remained a fan favorite due to his gritty performances and willingness to take risks.
When asked about the opportunity, DeVito said, “I’ve been preparing for this moment. I’ll give everything I have to help this team get back on track.”
Implications and Challenges
This decision signals the Giants’ focus on the future, as Jones is unlikely to return in 2025 due to the $23 million injury guarantee in his contract. Meanwhile, DeVito faces an uphill battle against a Buccaneers team still fighting for playoff contention.
The Giants hope this move provides clarity not just for this season but for their long-term quarterback situation. A strong performance from DeVito could either solidify his role or reaffirm the need to target a franchise quarterback in the upcoming draft.
