With negotiations between the New York Giants and incumbent quarterback Daniel Jones hitting a roadblock recently, the team could be eyeing a potential replacement in April’s NFL Draft.
The Giants took a calculated salary cap risk in the previous offseason. After three inconsistent and injury-filled filled seasons, the organization chose not to negotiate a long-term extension with Daniel Jones and allowed him to play out the final year of his rookie contract. Fortunately (and maybe unfortunately for their cap), Jones had his best season in the NFL and helped lead the team to the playoffs.
Over the last few weeks, New York and their starting QB have entered discussions to keep him under center for Big Blue for several more years. However, the talks have hit an impasse with reports that the sixth pick in the 2019 NFL Draft is looking for a deal with an annual salary close to $45 million. A number far above with the New York Giants were looking to give the 25-year-old.
Related: New York Giants expected to let Saquon Barkley test NFL free agency
The new asking price has led to speculation that the team will now use their franchise tag on the QB and retain him that way for next season. Since his long-term future with the Giants is unclear, it seems the team is already taking a hard look at a possible replacement in this year’s draft.
New York Giants doing their homework on 2023 NFL Draft prospect Hendon Hooker
This year’s NFL Draft is a very strong class for quarterbacks with four possibly being taken in the first round. One player that has been getting a lot of attention outside the top four is Tennessee senior Hendon Hooker.
The Virginia Tech transfer had two impressive years with the Volunteers but saw his outstanding 2022 season cut short in November due to a knee injury. If not for the injury, he very well might be included in the group that could be taken in the opening round. Currently, he is projected to be an early second-round selection on many draft boards.
On Tuesday, The Draft Network NFL and college football analyst Ryan Fowler reported that the New York Giants are one of five teams that have “met extensively” with Hooker recently. The Giants’ first two picks in the 2023 NFL Draft are No.s 25 and 57.
In 2021, Hooker racked up 3,565 total yards and 36 total touchdowns for Tennessee. The dual-threat star followed that up in 2022 with 3,565 total yards again and 32 total TDs.