Rookie Daniel Jones provides his own opinion on how he’s fared thus far as the New York Giants starting quarterback.
“Interesting.” That’s what New York Giants head coach Pat Shurmur said when describing Daniel Jones‘s first month as a starter.
The rookie is heading into Week 7 with a 2-2 quarterback record. Wins were over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Redskins, with losses coming at the hands of the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots.
It has been interesting, indeed. There have been some ups, and there have been some downs. But that comes with any rookie quarterback. Why do you think some, such as Patrick Mahomes, sit for a while before getting their first chance? These guys are young players in a position in which the correct decision-making is crucial.
Jones is no exception to that. The Duke product didn’t use the word, “interesting,” but did note that he’s dissatisfied with his first four starts.
“I’ve been inconsistent overall,” Jones said on Wednesday, per Emily Iannaconi of Sports Illustrated’s Giants Maven.
The inconsistency is an issue, but don’t forget, he hasn’t had great support. He’s barely had Saquon Barkley, who exited prior to halftime of Jones’ inaugural start in Tampa Bay. The Pro Bowl running back hasn’t returned to the game field since, as he’s nursing a high ankle sprain. Additionally, Jones didn’t have his top wide receiver (Sterling Shepard) nor his top tight end (Evan Engram) against New England.
Despite the excuses being there for the taking, Jones isn’t reaching for them. Ultimately, he understands the improvements that need to be made going forward.
“I’ve been good and been bad,” Jones said. “When you look at the scheme, the decisions, or my habits, I think there are a lot of things to learn.
“So I’ll kind of separate those problems, those individual issues and try to improve. But also just getting more comfortable and getting more accustomed to what we are doing. I think I’ll continue to learn and grow, but I’ve certainly had the opportunity to learn a lot this month.”
The rookie has completed 60.7% of his throws for 921 yards, five touchdowns, and six picks. He’s also lost three fumbles. This includes what he’s done in four starts along with the slim playing time the coaching staff handed him near the conclusion of the Week 1 blowout in Dallas.
Jones and the Giants are currently preparing for the 22-year-old’s fifth career start. The team will play host to the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday at 1:00 p.m. ET.
