Giants legend Eli Manning opens up about relationship with Daniel Jones

New York Giants legend Eli Manning remains close with current starting quarterback Daniel Jones even though Jones replaced Manning atop the depth chart as a rookie during the 2019 season.

"I’ve never had resentment toward him in any way just because I appreciate the way he’s handled his business," Manning said about Jones during a chat with Dan Duggan of The Athletic. "I appreciate the way he’s come in and worked hard and dealt with the controversy and dealt with the ups and downs. He’s always wanted to make improvements and get better. I appreciate his attitude and his commitment to football. I’m rooting for him and I’m a fan of him." 

Manning offered Jones some advice ahead of the 26-year-old's playoff debut against the Minnesota Vikings this past January, and current NFL analyst Boomer Esiason recently mentioned that the former teammates spent some time together this offseason. 

"He was a good house guest," Manning said about Jones. "We had a good time, definitely had some fun. We played some golf, worked out — he worked out and threw, I just kind of was out there coaching some of the kids up. It was good to hang out with him and get to do that." 

Giants running back Saquon Barkley noted this week that Jones has more "swagger" after the signal-caller signed a four-year deal that could be worth up to $160M. Manning explained why that contract is a positive for everyone involved beyond what it means for Jones' bank account. 

"It can be stressful when you don’t know what your circumstances are — where you’re playing or how you’re thought of," Manning said. "You’ve got coaches changing and (general managers) changing. I think (it’s important) for him to know this coaching staff and upper management have faith in him and have trust in him that he can go out there and earn everything that he’s gotten."

Manning added he likes to be able to "talk ball with" Jones after a game. The next opportunity for such a conversation will arrive when Jones and the Giants open the regular season with a home matchup versus the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 10.