3 backup quarterbacks the Giants could target in free agency

The New York Giants are gearing up for an eventful off-season that will require plenty of roster changes and player departures to clear salary space. The Giants are still over the cap by $7.6 million, meaning several big contracts will have to be moved by cut or trade.

One of the Giants’ biggest needs this off-season is a backup quarterback to help supplement any potential injuries to Daniel Jones, given the team commits to him for the 2022 season, which seems to be likely at this point. Jones sustained several injuries last year, including a concussion against the Dallas Cowboys and a neck injury against the Philadelphia Eagles that forced him out for the remaining six games of the season.

With minimal funds available, the Giants will have to find a cost-efficient player to fit the bill, so let’s take a look at three quarterbacks new general manager Joe Schoen Could target.

Three QBs the New York Giants could target in free agency:

1.) Mitchell Trubisky

There is reportedly a lot of interest in Mitchell Trubisky this off-season, so he might be priced out of the Giants’ range. He made six appearances last year for the Buffalo Bills in garbage time, completing six passes for 75 yards and an interception. However, Trubisky is an accomplished quarterback who made the Pro Bowl back in 2018 with the Chicago Bears at 24 years old.

Considering Trubisky has familiarity with Brian Daboll, it makes logical sense for the Giants to view him as a competent backup if not challenge Jones for starting snaps. However, there are teams that could view him as a potential starter in a stopgap situation, which could be far more enticing after learning behind Josh Allen and a talented Buffalo coaching staff.

If the interest continues to mount for Trubisky, the Giants may have to settle for a cheaper option, and there are a few available on the market.

2.) Marcus Mariota

When considering a backup quarterback, it is often smart to find one with similar skills to your starter. Mike Glennon was the complete opposite of Daniel Jones, but Marcus Mariota may offer the team a more comparable player. Mariota spent the first five seasons of his career with the Tennessee Titans, recording his best season in 2016 when he threw for 26 touchdowns and 3426 yards. He also rushed for 349 yards and two touchdowns.

Realistically, Mariota would be able to step right in and run the Giants’ offense without missing a beat, presenting value at the backup position. Mariota is coming off the final year of a two-year contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, earning just $3.5 million last season. Given his mediocre price tag, the Giants can likely scoop them up on a good contract.

3.) Ryan Fitzpatrick

The Washington Commanders signed Ryan Fitzpatrick to be their starter last season, but he played in just one game before missing the remainder of the season with a serious injury. The former seventh-round pick in 2005 will likely see his worth plummet after signing a one-year, $10 million deal for the 2021 season.

The Giants might be able to scoop Fitzpatrick up on a one-year, $4-5 million deal at this point, and given he’s capable of winning games, that is exactly what the Giants are looking for. Glennon never stood a chance against opponents with a lackluster scheme and virtually no mobility, but Fitzpatrick can create opportunities with his legs and make things happen off a whim.

[wpdiscuz-feedback id=”ok47zaza7z” question=”What do you think?” opened=”0″]Which quarterback would you choose out of these three? Comment here![/wpdiscuz-feedback]