New York Giants and QB Jones Remain Far Apart in Contract Talks

The New York Giants are in an awkward spot with their starting quarterback. Speaking with Good Morning Football on Thursday, Giants general manager Joe Schoen said he wished he and quarterback Daniel Jones were closer in their contract negotiations.

Giants GM Joe Schoen on contract talks with QB Daniel Jones, from @gmfb this morning:

"You're starting to feel the time crunch a little bit. I wish we were a little bit closer on a deal than what we are right now. But again, there's still time."
— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) March 2, 2023

Jones broke out in the fourth and final year of his rookie contract this past season, leading the Giants to their first playoff win since 2011 and the 15th most points in the league. He threw for a career-high 3250 passing yards and added 708 rushing yards. He also kept mistakes to a minimum, throwing an interception on a league-best 1.1% of his passes.

Reports emerged in February that the Giants intended to franchise tag Jones and that the young quarterback was pursuing a deal north of $45 million per year. It would be a steep price to pay; Jones has only led the Giants to an above-average scoring offense once so far in his career.

Unfortunately for the Giants, $40+ million per year is simply the new going rate for a competent starter at quarterback. Nine quarterbacks have already exceeded $40 million annually, and more are likely coming this offseason. Offering Jones any less would put the Giants in the unenviable position of admitting to their young passer they believe he's only an average or below-average starting quarterback.

If the Giants balk at $45 million per year and believe Jones isn't worth it, perhaps the franchise tag can buy them another year to evaluate the 25-year-old. Or, they can rip the bandaid off and try to find an upgrade now.