Inside the New York Giants’ Quarterback Conundrum: A Season of Change and Hope
In the world of professional football, few things are as scrutinized as the quarterback position. For the New York Giants, the 2024 season was a harsh reminder of this reality. As the season drew to a close, the Giants found themselves at a crossroads, with a dismal three-win record and a pressing need to address their quarterback situation. It was a time for reflection, planning, and, most importantly, action.
Just two days before the end of one of the worst seasons in New York Giants history, general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll sat down with owner John Mara for a crucial meeting. The agenda was clear: explain what went wrong and outline a plan for the future, particularly at the quarterback position.
During this pivotal meeting, Schoen and Daboll presented a comprehensive plan to Mara, detailing potential quarterback options. They explored the possibility of drafting top prospects like Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Jaxson Dart. They also considered potential free agents such as Justin Fields and Russell Wilson, as well as trade and cut candidates like Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins, and Aaron Rodgers. The plan was ambitious: add a veteran quarterback while also securing a promising rookie in the draft.
After much deliberation, Mara and fellow owner Steve Tisch decided to retain Schoen and Daboll. The quarterback plan aligned with their goals for the upcoming season: improve immediately while addressing the long-term need for a franchise quarterback.
In March, the Giants made significant moves by signing Winston and Wilson. They also retained Tommy DeVito and traded back into the first round to select Dart 25th overall out of Ole Miss. Dart became the first quarterback drafted since Schoen and Daboll took over in 2022.
“It’s been exhausting, to be honest with you,” Schoen admitted after the draft, reflecting on the arduous quarterback search.
The Giants’ journey to revamp their quarterback room was anything but straightforward. They had considered trading up for Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye in 2024, but their efforts were thwarted. Similarly, their attempts to secure the first overall pick from the Tennessee Titans were unsuccessful.
The resulting quarterback room is a diverse mix of personalities and talents. There’s the image-conscious Wilson, the gregarious Winston, the confident Dart, and the local favorite DeVito. “You need a reality show for that [quarterbacks] room,” quipped one NFL coach.
However, Schoen and Daboll’s focus is not on entertainment but on results. Their success will be measured by wins, both in the immediate future and beyond.
Initially, the Giants had inquired about Stafford before the trade deadline, but the Rams were hesitant to part with him. The Giants reengaged in February when Stafford’s agent was given permission to explore other options. Despite offering a lucrative deal, Stafford chose to stay in Los Angeles.
As the Stafford situation reached a resolution, the Giants turned their attention to Rodgers. There was a possibility of Rodgers making the switch across town, but it wasn’t the perfect fit. Eventually, the Giants pivoted to Wilson and Winston, with Wilson emerging as the preferred starting option.
Wilson signed a one-year deal with $10.5 million guaranteed, while Winston inked a two-year contract worth $8 million. Both quarterbacks were willing to step into a situation where a highly drafted rookie could enter the picture.
The Giants’ coaches first connected with Dart at the Senior Bowl in January. Schoen had seen him throw at the Manning Passing Academy, and the team was impressed by his performance throughout the draft process. Dart’s poise and potential made him Daboll’s quarterback of choice.
New York’s draft strategy involved selecting the best available player at pick No. 3 and then trading back into the first round to secure Dart. The Giants successfully executed this plan, bolstering their defensive front with tackle Darius Alexander in the third round.
Now, the challenge is to integrate these quarterbacks into a cohesive unit. Wilson is expected to start, with Winston as veteran insurance and Dart as the future hope. DeVito’s role remains uncertain, given the need for reps among the other three quarterbacks.
As the rookies begin their integration with the veterans, the quarterback room has shown promise. Dart expressed his admiration for his fellow quarterbacks, noting their support and mentorship.
If all goes well, Dart will have the opportunity to learn and develop during his rookie year. If not, he may find himself thrust into the lineup. The Giants have placed their bets on this quarterback room, hoping it will lead them to success and secure Schoen and Daboll’s future with the team.
Originally Written by: Jordan Raanan
