New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will not be taking the field in the NFL games today. After suffering a neck injury in Week 6, the face of the Giants’ franchise is among at least five starters out for Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills.
Jones, who is in the first year $160 million contract, was ruled out days in advance of Sunday Night Football. In his place, veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor draws the start behind a Giants’ offensive line missing three starters against one of the best pass rushes in the NFL.
- Daniel Jones stats 2023: 71.7 QB rating, 68.9% completion rate, 884 passing yards, 2-6 TD-INT, 5.9 yards per attempt, 28 sacks in five games
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Fortunately, there is some good news for New York. Despite missing practice all week and having a long injury history, Jones is reportedly on track to return very soon.
According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the Giants are optimistic that Jones will return to face the Washington Commanders in Week 7. While he did have a neck issue last year, club sources indicated that Jones isn’t dealing with a “long-term issue” right now. Even with his history of neck problems, New York is comfortable starting Jones next week even if he’s not at 100 percent.
Until Jones returns, Taylor will be under center behind one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL. Sunday’s matchup is particularly problematic for New York, given the Bills lead the NFL in pressure rate (32.6%) and sacks (21) while the Giants’ offensive line has allowed the most pressures (96) and sacks (16) in the NFL this year.
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- Daniel Jones contract: $15.75 million cap hit in 2023, $47.105 million cap hit in 2024, $41.605 million cap hit in 2025, $58.605 million cap hit in 2026
Fortunately, there is some news for New York as they prepare to take the field against Buffalo regarding running back Saquon Barkley.
Will Saquon Barkley play today?
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Giants are optimistic that running back Saquon Barkley will be able to play on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. Furthermore, tight end Darren Waller is expected to suit up for the Giants.
Barkley has missed the last three weeks with a high-ankle sprain, one that also jeopardized his status for Week 6. While New York plans to let Barkley test his ankle out during pre-game warmups before a final decision is made, there’s optimism he’ll play tonight.