Subscribe
Follow Us
The Minnesota Vikings are making some moves ahead of Week 13, as they signed former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, according to Jordan Schultz of NFL on Fox. This comes after the Giants released Jones to start Tommy DeVito. He was in the second season of his four-year, $160 million contract.
However, Schultz also reported that Jones had several options, but prioritized a team in contention with a QB-friendly offensive system and a coaching staff known for maximizing player potential. After seeing Sam Darnold have a resurgence this season, that could've been a motivating factor for the former first-round pick.
An interesting component within the signing is the relationship between Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell and Jones. After Week 12, O'Connell raised some eyebrows about his comments regarding Jones. While his comments were positive, they were a possible indication that Jones could land in Minnesota.
Fast forward to Wednesday and it has come to fruition. On a roster with Darnold as the top quarterback, Minnesota has flourished. He has 2,717 yards, 21 touchdowns, as well as a career-high 67.6% completion percentage. Darnold has had a revival in his career under O'Connell and the staff.
Daniel Jones could have a career resurgence with the Vikings
Even if Jones doesn't play a snap on the field with Minnesota, he'll get a confidence boost for sure. The Vikings head coach has shared his love with quarterbacks across the league. For instance, O'Connell spoke to Anthony Richardson after their game and told him that he's a star. Confidence from one of the best young minds in football can do wonders. For Jones, that's what he'll need.
Not to mention, being in a great offensive system will help as well. Working with a talented group around him can elevate his game. Justin Jefferson, Aaron Jones, and TJ Hockenson make an impressive group of young stars and seasoned veterans. A simple change of scenery can elevate the former Giants quarterback to where he once was.
Regardless, the Vikings will stick with Darnold unless something drastic happens. In the meantime, Jones can learn from a good head coach and be a fly on the wall. After all, Darnold did that with the San Francisco 49ers last season. He sat behind Brock Purdy and watched San Francisco go to the Super Bowl. Learning under Kyle Shanahan did wonders for the seven-year quarterback.
Although Jones and Darnold are different players, their careers line up similarly. Minnesota has nothing to lose through signing Jones and has a solid option as the backup, in case an emergency arises.
