The New York Giants might have a significant problem on their hands, and his name is Daniel Jones. Before the start of the 2019 preseason, it was expected that Jones would struggle and that Eli Manning would shine and prove his worth once more.
However, something very odd and unexpected happened, Jones excelled and continues to show why he can be starting quality player in the NFL.
The New York Giants are impressed with how Daniel Jones is progressing:
Over three preseason games, Jones is 25-of-30, with 369 passing yards, two touchdowns, and an 83.3% completion percentage. The Giants must be happy with his performance so far, as his poise and accuracy from the pocket have been on full display.
Coach Shurmur:
Daniel Jones gets better every time he takes the field. That’s what you’re looking for in a young player.
From the fans perspective, he looks game ready. The issue ultimately boils down to, in an alternative universe would Jones be the starting option over Manning?
The answer is…probably, but in this universe, John Mara is still married to Eli, and his two Super Bowl rings, rightfully so. The Giants are looking good for the future, though, as the sixth overall pick from the 2019 NFL draft looks like he’s headed on a path for success.
Taking a massive hit from Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Carl Lawson and getting up the very next play to throw a beautiful pass to Darius Slayton at the 2-yard line showed his resiliency and ability to overcome adversity.
Only the beginning??#dannydimes pic.twitter.com/6Cnqjs3l3u
— Darius Slayton (@Young_Slay2) August 23, 2019
The rookie has had his fair share of struggles, especially with protecting the ball. Jones fumbled once against the Bengals after fumbling twice against the Chicago Bears in week 2 of the preseason. He will need to work on his ball security, but the rest of his game looks developed and refined. He will continue to work on his preparation and understanding NFL coverages and concepts so that when he does eventually succeed Manning, he will be more than ready.
Some might call the situation between Daniel Jones and Eli Manning a quarterback controversy. I see this as genuine competition and something that will likely bring out the best in both players.
Ultimately, Manning hasn’t enjoyed any real competition in 15 years, but the boot of Jones is slowly pressing on Manning’s neck as he squeezes out his remaining quality in the twilight years of his career.