Giants GM discusses relationship with Daniel Jones after 'Hard Knocks' revelation

The "Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants" program that debuted earlier this summer confirmed that Giants general manager Joe Schoen explored landing an eventual replacement for starting quarterback Daniel Jones via the 2024 NFL Draft.

Schoen ultimately went down a different route, and he spoke during a Tuesday appearance on the WFAN "Boomer and Gio" show about his working relationship with Jones heading into what will be a pivotal season for the 27-year-old. 

"There was no issue with trust," Schoen insisted, as shared by Ryan Chichester of Audacy. "(Head coach Brian) Daboll and I thought all along it was very important to be upfront and to communicate and shoot these guys straight. They’re grown men. It’s a business." 

Specifically, the Giants were heavily linked in pre-draft rumors with North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye but reportedly never came close to acquiring the third overall pick. The New England Patriots stayed at No. 3 to take Maye, while the Giants selected LSU Tigers wide receiver Malik Nabers with the draft's sixth selection. 

Meanwhile, Jones endured a rough return to in-game action coming off an ACL tear in this past Saturday's 28-10 preseason loss at the Houston Texans. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk later suggested that Jones' confidence has been impacted by "the open and persistent conversation about upgrading at QB" featured on "Hard Knocks," but Schoen sounds unmoved by such takes. 

"We let him know," Schoen continued while speaking about Jones. "We didn’t want him to be blindsided and wanted to be upfront with him. I think when you’re upfront and communicate and you’re honest, there’s no issue with trust." 

It's no secret the Giants can escape Jones' contract next offseason and that Big Blue could have millions of reasons to bench the 2019 first-round draft pick this fall if it becomes clear the club is a playoff pretender rather than a postseason contender. Jones seems to understand the harsh reality of his situation, and he should have numerous opportunities this season to prove his worth to the organization beginning with the Week 1 home matchup versus the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 8 as long as he stays healthy.