To the surprise of many, the New York Giants emerged as serious contenders for Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford over the last week. The two-time Pro Bowler reportedly was looking for a pay bump, but LA was hesitant to lock themselves into more money and allowed him to speak with interested teams about a potential move.
However, after some flirtations with the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders, it was reported on Wednesday that Stafford and the Rams had agreed to terms on a restructured deal. Now, the G-Men must take their search for a new QB elsewhere, and that is rumored to include New York Jets signal-caller Aaron Rodgers. With Stafford unavailable, let’s look at five veteran QBs big Blue could target in the next few weeks.
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Aaron Rodgers
Following the Stafford news, The Athletic’s NFL insider Dianna Russini reported the Giants are now shifting their interest to Rodgers. The four-time MVP reportedly reached out to the team recently to gauge interest since his run with the Jets is set to end very soon. While he is a big risk, he would probably come at an affordable rate and would allow them to either use their top picks in April to fill other needs or not feel pressured to make a rookie QB their starter in 2025.
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Justin Fields
Daniel Jones had a breakout season three years ago under head coach Brian Daboll. Former Chicago Bears first rounder Justin Fields will be available in free agency and offers a similar skillset but more upside. Sam Darnold’s massive success in Minnesota this season showed careers can be turned around if put in the right system. The Giants may feel Daboll may be able to help Fields reach his potential.
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Jameis Winston
Yes, Jameis Winston has a lot of flaws and can throw his team out of games. However, we have also seen many times over the years that he can be a game breaker on any given Sunday. The former first-round pick is always popular in the locker room and would not be a pricey addition in free agency this offseason.
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Gardner Minshew
Although Gardner Minshew disappointed in Las Vegas, he earned Pro Bowl honors two seasons ago. If the Raiders do cut him, as has been rumored, Minshew is a rock-solid veteran that would be an affordable placeholder for a season while they coach up a rookie QB.
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Joe Flacco
If the New York Giants want to go bargain shopping for a good mentor for a newbie, former Baltimore Ravens star Joe Flacco makes sense. Over the last few seasons he has become a journeyman QB. But two years ago he was a massive part of the Cleveland Browns late season run to the playoffs. Even during eight appearances for the Indianapolis Colts last season, the 40-year-old threw for 330 or more yards twice.
