The former Giants quarterback pondered on his decision during free agency. Daniel Jones wore the Minnesota Vikings jersey for the first time on Friday, exactly one week after being released by the New York Giants.
Jones passed waivers on Monday because to a four-year, $160 million contract he signed with New York in 2023, but he drew plenty of interest from NFL teams once he hit the open market. Jones was hoping to join a competitive club, and he chose to sign with the Vikings on Wednesday over a reported nine other teams who contacted out.
So, why did Jones chose to settle in Minnesota?
“You look at what they’ve accomplished offensively, the system, coach [Kevin] O’Connell, and his staff. “There are a lot of positive things going on as a team and organization, particularly on offense,” Jones said. “Just excited to join that and help out where I can.”
O’Connell and the Vikings appear to be establishing a reputation as a safe haven for quarterbacks seeking to change the narratives surrounding their careers.
Sam Darnold, the former No. 3 pick in 2018 who failed as the New York Jets’ franchise quarterback, is demonstrating he still belongs in the NFL as a starter behind center. In 11 games this season, Darnold guided the Vikings to nine wins while tossing 21 touchdown passes
A career-best 101.7 passer rating. Jones, who failed to develop into a franchise quarterback at MetLife Stadium, has been keeping an eye on Darnold from afar. Jones is looking for a similar career trajectory, whether he stays on the Vikings’ practice squad for one week or re-signs for the following season.
“We haven’t had a lot of crossover on film, so I haven’t paid too much attention,” Jones said of Darnold. “But simply from following him and seeing some games on TV, it’s clear that he’s been playing at a very high level and accomplishing a lot of excellent things. I’m happy for him. I’ve known Sam for quite some time and have always had a soft spot for him. He had a terrific year, and recording
played at a very high level. Jones will be on the Vikings’ sideline Sunday for their game against the Arizona Cardinals at U.S. Bank Stadium, his first visit to Minneapolis since leading the Giants to an upset 31-24 victory in the wild-card round of the playoffs on Jan. 15, 2023. It was undoubtedly the game that prompted the Giants to extend him to a four-year contract deal.
“I like U.S. Bank Stadium,” Jones stated with a smile. “It’s a beautiful stadium, and the supporters there are amazing. I’m looking forward to returning there and viewing it on Sunday.”
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