Daniel Jones Still Giants’ QB1 Despite 2 INT, Pick-6 in Vikings Loss, Daboll Says

Jones completed 22-of-42 passes for 186 yards and two interceptions in a 28-6 home loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. His first interception resulted in an Andrew Van Ginkel pick-six.

Jones, who signed a four-year, $160 million contract in 2023, has now thrown more pick-sixes (three) than touchdowns (two) since Week 1 of last season.

The 27-year-old was limited to six games last year after suffering a neck injury that cost him three games and then a season-ending torn ACL upon his return.

Over his first three seasons (2019-2021), Jones flashed at times, especially during his rookie year. He brought great hope to the franchise after a phenomenal debut that saw him account for four total touchdowns and 336 passing yards in a 32-31 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Sept. 2019. Jones threw for 24 touchdowns but also committed 23 turnovers that season.

The next two years were a struggle for the offense under a new regime (head coach Joe Judge, offensive coordinator Jason Garrett). The Giants finished second-last in points in both seasons, and Jones threw for just 21 touchdowns over those campaigns.

However, hope reigned in 2022 under head coach Brian Daboll. Jones looked far more calm and poised, and the mistakes that plagued his rookie season were gone (just five interceptions and three lost fumbles). He ultimately helped lead the Giants to their first playoff appearance since 2016 and first playoff win since 2011.

That victory, a 31-24 result over the Vikings, featured Jones accounting for 379 total yards and two touchdowns.

But the 2023 season was disastrous. Behind an offensive line that gave him little-to-no room to operate, Jones threw three times as many interceptions (six) as touchdowns (two) and looked nothing like the player from the year before.

The offensive line held up well enough on Sunday. Bobby Skinner of Talkin’ Giants provided the details.

But Jones may have had one of his worst-ever games as a pro. Doug Analytics provided more details.

Jones will get another shot on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET when the Giants visit the Washington Commanders. Of note, Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito reside behind Jones on the depth chart if struggles continue and the Giants make a change.