Daniel Jones Shines with the Colts After Giants Departure

After another disappointing season for the Giants, former quarterback Daniel Jones has found new life with the Indianapolis Colts. He not only led the team to the best record in the NFL but has also emerged as a strong contender for the MVP award through the first eight games.

Darius Slayton, a former wide receiver who has been a steadfast supporter of Jones during his struggles with the Giants, shared his thoughts on Jones’ resurgence. Speaking ahead of the Colts’ matchup against the 49ers at MetLife Stadium, Slayton expressed that he wasn’t surprised by Jones’ success. “I can’t say I’m shocked,” he remarked. “My views have always been based on solid reasoning. Some wait to see results before making claims, but I’ve believed in him for a long time. He’s a dedicated worker and his talent is shining through.”

He continued, reflecting on work ethic: “In life, whether it’s academics or jobs, it’s about how you prepare and approach challenges. If you put in the right kind of effort, success will follow. It might not happen overnight, but it pays off in the long run. That’s exactly who he is.”

Jones’ impressive performance came after being released by the Giants last November, following another lackluster season. He spent time with the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad before signing a one-year deal with the Colts, where he now shares the field with Anthony Richardson.

He not only clinched a starting position but also became the player the Giants envisioned when they drafted him sixth overall in 2019, alongside Slayton, who was picked in the fifth round.

The two players had a solid connection. While Slayton’s performance has dipped since Jones’ exit, it’s evident that Jones has thrived. “I sometimes think it’s due to the circumstances around him,” Slayton reflected. “Maybe he wasn’t meant to be a Giant. Perhaps this was always meant to be his path as a Colt. Life is often about timing.”

Interestingly, Slayton’s own season has not gone as expected. After signing a three-year deal worth $36 million, he’s faced challenges, including two games missed due to a hamstring injury, amassing just 14 receptions for 192 yards.

“Adjusting to new teammates can be tough,” he noted, recalling the struggles of playing with four different quarterbacks last year and now teaming with Russell Wilson and Jackson Dart this season.

However, Slayton has been enjoying watching Jones from a distance. Jones has made strides in reducing turnovers and improving efficiency, achieving more wins with the Colts than in all but one of his six games with the Giants this season.

“I’m genuinely happy and proud of him,” Slayton said. “It’s great to see him finally showcase who he is and what he can achieve.”

“Having known what he’s been through—he faced a lot of criticism—makes it all the more rewarding to see him succeed. Watching his determination, I always believed he would eventually come out on top.”