Former Giants quarterback Daniel Jones explains why he signed with the Vikings.
Jones was benched for the Giants last week due to a combination of ineffectiveness and the team's unwillingness to risk a guaranteed major injury.
After a situation in which Jones was assigned to play safety on the scout team during practice, Jones requested his release, which the team granted.
Jones started as a reserve for the 9-2 Vikings and spoke to reporters Friday about why he signed there.
“When you look at what they were able to do offensively, the system, the coaches. [Kevin] Mr. O'Connell and his staff. There are a lot of good things happening with this team and the organization as a whole, especially offensively.'' Jones said. saidas Covered by Sports Illustrated. “I’m excited to be a part of it and help out in any way I can.”
Jones will back up fellow former first-round pick Sam Darnold, who was flamed out of New York after three years with the Jets.
Darnold revived Minnesota's O'Connell system.
“I didn't really look into him too much because there wasn't a lot of crossover in the movie,” Jones said Friday of Darnold. “But just following him and watching some games on TV, obviously he's been playing at a very high level and doing a lot of good things. I'm happy for him. I've known him for a while and was always drawn to him. He had a great year and played at a really high level.”
The highlight of Jones' NFL career came when he led a 31-24 road upset of the Vikings in the 2022-23 playoffs.
“I love U.S. Bank Stadium,” Jones said with a smile. “It's a great stadium and the fans there are great too. I'm looking forward to getting back there and watching it again on Sunday.”
