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Daniel Jones Speaks for First Time on ‘Crazy’ Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Anthony Licciardi | Last updated Dec 2, 2024 10:49 AM ET

For all of the criticism Daniel Jones endured during his time with the New York Giants, it seems like most of the fan base was in agreement as it wished him well in his farewell.

Perhaps it was the emotional press conference that all but closed the book on his tenure in New York. Maybe it was the finality of his release and the official ending of this era of Giants quarterback. Whatever the reason, Jones is no longer New York’s cross to bear, and everyone seems a little better without the pressure that situation induced.

Since his release, Jones has signed with the Minnesota Vikings, giving him a change of scenery and potentially a head start on free agency.

On Friday, he spoke for the first time as a member of the Vikings.

“It’s been a crazy last couple of weeks, for sure. Certainly a lot going on. At the end of the day, I’m excited to be here. This is an awesome opportunity,” Jones said after his first practice, via KSTP. “I’m looking forward to learning the system and building relationships with these guys and helping the team.”

There’s reason to believe Minnesota was the best spot for Jones. Head coach Kevin O’Connell is another quarterback guru, seems to have the full trust of the locker room, has revitalized Sam Darnold’s career, and comes across as the kind of voice Jones needs in his ear. O’Connell went out of his way to encourage Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson after he was benched earlier in 2024, and has done the same for Caleb Williams, among others.

Further, Minnesota is now 10-2 with a win on Sunday over the Arizona Cardinals. With a playoff spot on the way, there’a a chance Jones gets one final audition, this time on the biggest stage.

For now, though, Jones remains on the practice squad, playing catchup and simply hoping to support his new teammates.

“These guys are game-planning, focusing on winning, so I don’t want to slow anything down with that,” Jones said. “It’s on me to catch up, to take the time outside of meetings, outside of practice, to learn it.”

Given everything Giants fans have seen from Jones off the field, from playing safety on the scout team to handling the media and retaining the trust of veteran leadership, there’s little doubt he’ll do what’s necessary to help Minnesota down the stretch, even if it never comes to fruition.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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