Giants QB Daniel Jones (knee) plans to be ready for training camp

Daniel Jones on Monday said the plan is to be ready for the start of training camp, whether or not the New York Giants draft another quarterback later this month.

The Giants quarterback has taken some wild turns in the past year. After signing a massive extension last offseason, Jones dealt with a lingering neck injury early in the 2023 season, missing three games. Then upon returning to the lineup, Jones suffered a season-ending ACL tear.

Jones asserts that his neck issue is resolved, but his ACL rehabilitation is ongoing. He has plans to be fully prepared for training camp and feels he’s significantly advanced on his knee’s recovery journey.

“Rehab is progressing well,” Jones announced on Monday when he reported for the beginning of New York’s voluntary off-season program. “I’m making significant progress and recovering nicely. I’ve devoted a lot of time with our training team. It feels like everything is going well and I’m healing well.”

Despite the extension, Jones might still be fighting for a permanent place on the Giants’ roster. General manager Joe Schoen has been scouting QB prospects nationwide, and with the 2024 NFL Draft approaching, the Giants possess the No. 6 overall pick.

Nevertheless, Jones has focused on his own situation rather than speculating about the Giants’ potential actions in the draft.

“He said, “My concentration is on what I’m doing here with my rehab.”

Interestingly, Jones compared his current situation to running back Saquon Barkley returning last season in the final year of his deal, not knowing if he’d be part of the Giants’ future. Barkley left the Giants early in free agency, signing with the rival Eagles.

“The situation with Saquon last year is a case in point; it’s the nature of our industry,” said Jones. “We’re in a competitive league, so the most effective strategy is to concentrate on my own performance. Focusing on my health and readiness to play well is within my control.”

When questioned whether he still considers himself as the best quarterback option for the Giants, Jones gave a clear and direct response.

“I do, yes,” he said.

We’ll soon discover whether or not the Giants share that view.