New York Giants release embattled $160 million quarterback in shocking move | Sporting News

The New York Giants didn’t have to wait until the offseason to part ways with quarterback Daniel Jones.

In a statement released by the team Friday afternoon, the Giants released Jones after the 27-year-old requested the move in a meeting with owner John Mara.

Jones is subject to waivers and assuming he clears, he will be free to sign with any team beginning Friday at 4:00 p.m. ET.

“Daniel came to see me this morning and asked if we would release him,” Mara said in a statement released by the team. “We mutually agreed that would be best for him and for the team. Daniel has been a great representative of our organization, first class in every way. His handling of this situation yesterday exemplifies just that. We are all disappointed in how things have worked out. We hold Daniel in high regard and have a great appreciation for him. We wish him nothing but the best in the future.”

While this move doesn’t impact the salary cap at all, it does free the Giants of the potential $23 million injury guarantee that was in Jones’ contract. The Giants weren’t going to let Jones see the field anyway to protect themselves against the clause.

The Jones era has officially come to an end after a tumultuous six seasons. The No. 6 overall pick from the 2019 NFL draft will now be looking for a new team.

Even in his best season as a Giant during the 2022 season, Jones was more a game manager than a dynamic weapon under center. Even so, it led to Jones signing a four-year, $160 million deal.

Since signing that contract, Jones missed 17 games due to injuries and failed to produce on the field. Over his last 16 games — spanning back to the start of 2023 — Jones has made 16 starts.

In that span, he’s completed 64.7% of his passes for 2,979 yards, 10 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, three fumbles and a 76.6 passer rating.

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