Daniel Jones joins Vikings: A fresh start or just a backup plan?

Daniel Jones Joins Vikings: A Fresh Start or Just a Backup Plan?

EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings have added a new face to their quarterback room, and it’s none other than former New York Giants starter Daniel Jones. While fans and analysts alike are buzzing about what this move could mean for the team’s future, Jones himself is keeping things simple. On his first day with the Vikings, the quarterback made it clear that he’s focused on the here and now, not the long-term implications of his arrival.

“I think you’re always looking to grow and improve,” Jones said during his introductory press conference. “And to work on your craft. See where you can get better and pick up certain things. So yeah, I’m looking forward to that, but more so just to help out, to be part of a good quarterback room, part of a good offense and see where I can help.”

Jones, who started 69 games over six seasons for the New York Giants, found himself in an unusual position this season. After starting 10 games for the Giants, he was demoted and eventually released last week. The decision came after it became clear he was unlikely to play for the team again due to an injury guarantee in his contract. Once he cleared waivers, Jones became a free agent and drew interest from multiple teams. Ultimately, he chose the Vikings, even though their quarterback situation is already crowded.

Why Minnesota?

It’s an interesting choice for Jones, considering the Vikings’ current quarterback depth chart. Starter Sam Darnold is having a career year, and rookie J.J. McCarthy is widely expected to take over as the starter in 2025, assuming he fully recovers from a torn meniscus in his right knee. For now, Jones has signed a one-year deal and will begin his stint with the Vikings on the practice squad. He’s well aware of the work ahead of him.

“It’s about putting in the time to learn it, to study it,” Jones said of the Vikings’ offensive system. “I’m catching up and these guys are game-planning and focusing on winning, so you don’t want to slow anything down with that. It’s on me to catch up, to take the time outside of meetings, outside of practice to learn it, and that’s what I’ll do.”

The Vikings’ Quarterback Puzzle

For Minnesota, the addition of Jones seems to be more about planning for the future than addressing any immediate needs. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has praised the work of backup Nick Mullens and No. 3 quarterback Brett Rypien, who has been handling scout team duties. It would take a series of unusual circumstances for Jones to see the field this season. However, with Darnold, Mullens, and Rypien all on expiring contracts, the Vikings are clearly keeping their options open for 2025.

O’Connell explained the team’s approach: “You’re really doing two things at once. You’re building a longer-term foundation, but at the same time keeping a mindset on if Daniel is called upon to play, we want to make sure we’re not wasting time on the present and we make sure he’s ready to step in if need be.”

What’s Next for Jones?

For now, Jones will spend most of his time working with quarterbacks coach Josh McCown and assistant offensive coordinator/assistant quarterbacks coach Grant Udinski. O’Connell also plans to dedicate some individual time to Jones each week, as he does with McCarthy. The goal is to ensure that Jones is prepared to contribute if called upon, while also laying the groundwork for a potential role in 2025.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the Vikings’ quarterback situation:

• Sam Darnold: The current starter, enjoying a career year.
• J.J. McCarthy: Rookie expected to take over in 2025, recovering from a torn meniscus.
• Nick Mullens: Backup quarterback on an expiring contract.
• Brett Rypien: No. 3 quarterback, praised for his scout team work.
• Daniel Jones: New addition, starting on the practice squad.

It’s clear that Jones has a lot to prove, both to himself and to the Vikings. While his time in New York didn’t end the way he might have hoped, this new chapter in Minnesota offers a chance to reset and rebuild. Whether he becomes a key piece of the Vikings’ future or simply a reliable insurance policy remains to be seen. For now, Jones is focused on learning, growing, and helping out wherever he can.

“I’m just excited to be here,” Jones said. “It’s a great opportunity, and I’m ready to get to work.”