The New York Giants enter the 2024 NFL Draft with a surprising dilemma. Despite expressing commitment to Daniel Jones, who signed a four-year, $154 million extension in the 2023 offseason, his injury history and the team's disappointing 6-11 2023 season raise questions about their long-term quarterback solution.
There does not seem to be much of an appetite within the Giants hierarchy to trade up into the top three (picks)
Paul Schwartz, New York Post
To Draft or Not to Draft?
While Schoen remains optimistic about Jones' recovery from a neck injury and torn ACL, a growing sentiment suggests exploring other options. The 26-year-old quarterback has battled injuries throughout his career, starting just 38 games in four seasons.
His inconsistent play, marked by stretches of brilliance followed by frustrating stretches of inaccuracy and turnovers, has left many fans and analysts questioning his ability to lead the Giants to sustained success.
The presence of a potentially deep quarterback class in the 2024 draft adds another layer of complexity. Talented prospects like J.J. McCarthy (Notre Dame), who impressed with his accuracy and decision-making in his junior year, Bo Nix (Oregon), known for his dynamic playmaking ability, and Michael Penix Jr. (Washington), lauded for his strong arm and leadership qualities, all possess various strengths and weaknesses, making the decision even more challenging for the Giants' front office.
Furthermore, teams like the Chicago Bears (currently holding the second overall pick), Washington Commanders (10th), New England Patriots (12th), and Arizona Cardinals (16th) are all reportedly in the hunt for a new starting quarterback.
This puts pressure on teams like the Giants and Tennessee Titans (seventh overall pick) who sit just outside the top five and could potentially draft a quarterback.
However, Schoen has also highlighted the need to bolster other areas, including wide receiver, which ranked 29th in receiving yards in 2023, and the offensive line, which allowed a league-high 57 sacks, exposing Jones to constant pressure and contributing to his struggles.
The Giants' history with first-round quarterbacks, with mixed results (Eli Manning in 2004 being a notable success story), serves as a cautionary tale. Recent examples like Dwayne Haskins (Washington, 2019) and Daniel Jones himself highlight the risks involved in drafting quarterbacks high in the draft, where expectations are more and the learning curve is steep.
Weighing Options
The Giants must weigh the potential benefits of drafting a quarterback against the cost of acquiring one through trade and the impact on other needs. They'll need to consider extensive player evaluations, draft strategy, and the potential cost of moving up or down in the draft.
NFL analysts estimate that trading up to the top three picks could cost the Giants multiple future first-round picks and additional draft capital, significantly hindering their ability to address other pressing needs.
Finding a long-term solution at quarterback remains a priority for Schoen, but he also emphasizes building a well-rounded roster. While trading up for a top prospect like Caleb Williams (USC), known for his electrifying playmaking ability, Drake Maye (North Carolina), praised for his accuracy and leadership, or Jayden Daniels (LSU), a dual-threat quarterback with a strong arm and mobility, is tempting, it carries a hefty price tag in terms of draft capital.
A Pivotal Moment
Ultimately, the Giants are at a crossroads. Do they gamble on Jones' health and build around him, hoping he can overcome his injury woes and become a consistent performer? Or do they take a chance on a new quarterback in the draft, possibly resetting the franchise timeline but potentially finding their long-awaited franchise leader?
The Giants' choice at the 2024 NFL Draft will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and the entire NFL landscape, with the potential to shape the team's fortunes for years to come.