The New York Giants are granting quarterback Daniel Jones‘ request to be released, the team announced Friday.
Giants president John Mara said the sides mutually agreed that it “would be best for him and for the team” to move on.
“Daniel has been a great representative of our organization, first class in every way,” Mara said in a statement. “His handling of this situation yesterday exemplifies just that. We are all disappointed in how things have worked out.”
Jones would have to go through waivers, though it is unlikely a team would pick up the rest of the four-year, $160 million contract he signed in March 2023. The Giants would have been on the hook for $23 million if Jones were to sustain a serious injury and not be able to pass a physical early next year. It was a risk the Giants were not willing to take.
New York will take on more than $20 million in dead money with the move.
The Giants decided to bench Jones during their bye week. Jones addressed the decision Thursday, expressing regret for not producing enough victories while also saying he was still processing his future.
“There have been some great times, but of course we all wish there had been more of those,” Jones said in a statement. “I take full responsibility for my part in not bringing more wins. Nobody wanted to win more games worse than me and I gave everything I had on the field and in my preparation. Of course, this season has been disappointing for all and of course I wish I could have done more. I’m 100% accountable for my part. I did not play well enough consistently enough to help the team get results.
“The reality of the NFL is it’s hard to win games. It requires consistent performance for everyone involved. We didn’t do that well enough, so the idea to change something happens and I understand. I love the game, I love being part of the team. I’m excited for the next opportunity. I know there is a lot of good football in front of me, and I’m excited about that.”
Tommy DeVito will make his first start of the season Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. DeVito won three games as a starter in 2023.
Jones had been the Giants’ starting quarterback for much of the past six years, leading New York to the playoffs and a wild-card win in 2022. But he had eight touchdown passes with seven interceptions this season for the 2-8 Giants and was 3-13 as the starter since signing his new contract.
“We hold Daniel in high regard and have a great appreciation for him,” Mara said. “We wish him nothing but the best in the future.”
Information from ESPN’s Jordan Raanan was used in this report.