Daniel Jones understands why he has been benched by the New York Giants but says he is “not happy about it”.
Tommy DeVito will start under center for the Giants in Sunday’s game with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Jones almost certainly having played his last game for the team.
The 27-year-old is 3-13 after signing a four-year, $160million deal last March and the Giants are 2-8 for this season.
A statement today after practice from Daniel Jones: pic.twitter.com/zrCye16cJy
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 21, 2024
📰 Table Of Contents
‘I take full responsibility’
Jones told reporters today: “There have been some great times, but of course we all wish there had been more of those.
“I take full responsibility for my part in not bringing more wins. Nobody wanted to win more games worse than me and I gave everything I had on the field and in my preparation. Of course, this season has been disappointing for all and of course I wish I could have done more. I’m 100 per cent accountable for my part. I did not play well enough consistently enough to help the team get results.
“The reality of the NFL is it’s hard to win games. It requires consistent performance for everyone involved. We didn’t do that well enough, so the idea to change something happens and I understand. I love the game, I love being part of the team. I’m excited for the next opportunity. I know there is a lot of good football in front of me and I’m excited about that.”
Injury guarantee has played a part in decision – Jones
Jones has a $23m injury guarantee for next season that the Giants would have to pay if he cannot pass a physical early next year – a factor the quarterback accepts is part of his demotion.
He added: “Definitely not happy about it. Not what you want to hear. All those emotions you have.
“At the end of the day, this is football and we’re in a business where you’re expected to get results, and we weren’t doing it. You’ve got to accept it and understand.
“I wanted to play. I wanted to play badly and do what I could to play. I think it was a part of it. Most of those discussions took place with my agents and [general manager] Joe [Schoen].
“They don’t want to take any risks. At that point, it’s just do as you’re told.”
