The New York Giants have several pressing needs to address this offseason, but their most urgent priority is solidifying the quarterback position. With the Daniel Jones era seemingly coming to an end, neither Drew Lock nor Tommy DeVito was able to step up and provide the team with a reliable option under center. As a result, the Giants must explore all avenues—through both free agency and the draft—to find a solution at quarterback.
Exploring Free-Agent Quarterbacks: Mac Jones as an Option
Holding the third overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, New York has a strong chance of selecting one of the top quarterback prospects. However, there is no guarantee that their preferred choice will still be available when they are on the clock. Because of this uncertainty, the Giants may look to free agency to bring in a veteran quarterback who can serve as either a bridge starter or a reliable backup.
Dan Duggan of The Athletic recently outlined several free-agent quarterback options the Giants could consider, with former New England Patriots first-round pick Mac Jones among them. Jones, who was drafted 15th overall in 2021, initially showed promise in his rookie season, throwing 22 touchdown passes and leading the Patriots to a playoff appearance. However, his career has since taken a downward trajectory.
After struggling in New England for two more seasons, Jones was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the offseason. As Trevor Lawrence’s backup, he saw limited action but was thrust into the starting role late in the year when Lawrence suffered a season-ending injury. In seven starts, Jones threw for 1,672 yards, eight touchdowns, and eight interceptions while leading the Jaguars to a 2-5 record. While those numbers don’t scream “franchise quarterback,” Jones could still be a useful addition for a Giants team in need of depth at the position.
The Giants Have the Cap Space to Make Moves
If the Giants decide to pursue Jones, the financial aspect should not be an issue. New York has considerable cap space this offseason, giving them the flexibility to make multiple moves while still addressing the quarterback position. If they sign Jones, it would likely be at a low cost, making him a budget-friendly addition with the potential to serve as either a bridge starter or a dependable backup to a rookie quarterback.
A Potential Fit in Brian Daboll’s System
One of the more intriguing aspects of a potential Jones-Giants pairing is his connection with head coach Brian Daboll. Daboll, who served as Alabama’s offensive coordinator in 2017, coached Jones during his redshirt freshman season with the Crimson Tide. That familiarity could work in Jones’ favor, as Daboll’s offensive scheme might help him regain some of the form he displayed in college.
During his final collegiate season in 2020, Jones had a spectacular campaign, finishing third in Heisman Trophy voting while leading the nation with 4,500 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. If he were to reunite with Daboll in New York, it’s possible that the system could help him rediscover some of that success.
Ultimately, signing Jones would be a low-risk, high-reward move for the Giants. While he may not be the long-term answer at quarterback, his experience, affordability, and prior connection with Daboll could make him a viable option as the Giants look to rebuild their passing attack.
