Daniel Jones Inks Deal To Join Minnesota Vikings
Former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones has signed with the Minnesota Vikings, marking a significant step in his career and for a franchise navigating a potential quarterback shift in the coming offseason. The move, first reported by ESPN, brings Jones to Minnesota on a one-year deal worth $375,000 for the remainder of the season, according to sources.
A Fresh Start in Minnesota
Jones became a free agent on Monday after clearing waivers following a mutual decision to part ways with the Giants. Sources revealed that Jones prioritized signing with a playoff contender, with the Vikings emerging as a top option. While he will initially join Minnesota’s practice squad, this arrangement leaves room for Jones to be picked up by another team if an urgent starting opportunity arises in the next three weeks.
The deal allows the Vikings to evaluate Jones as a potential long-term backup or complementary quarterback alongside their current and future roster plans.
Minnesota’s Quarterback Landscape
The Vikings currently face uncertainty in their quarterback depth chart. Rookie J.J. McCarthy, their only signal-caller under contract for the 2025 season, is recovering from a season-ending meniscus injury and subsequent surgery. Despite positive progress in his rehabilitation, his status for the 2025 season remains tentative.
Veteran Sam Darnold has stepped into the starting role and delivered a career-best season, leading the team to an impressive 9-2 record. With a league-high 21 touchdown passes this year, Darnold is poised to command significant attention in free agency, creating additional questions about the Vikings’ future quarterback strategy.
In the immediate term, Jones is expected to slot behind Darnold and Nick Mullens, giving the Vikings added depth. This move also provides an opportunity for Minnesota to explore the possibility of pairing Jones with McCarthy in 2025.
A Familiar Fit with Kevin O’Connell
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has long admired Jones, dating back to the pre-draft process in 2019 when O’Connell was Washington’s offensive coordinator. O’Connell expressed his respect for Jones earlier this week, hinting at his longstanding appreciation for the quarterback’s skillset.
“I have tons of respect for Daniel Jones as a player and a person,” O’Connell said. “I’ve been a big fan of Daniel’s for a long time. Wherever his next step takes him, I hope it’s a great opportunity.”
The move to Minnesota also reunites Jones with a coach known for his quarterback expertise, creating an environment where Jones could refine his skills and contribute meaningfully.
Jones’ Journey and Upside
One of Jones’ most memorable performances came against the Vikings in the January 2023 wild-card playoff game, where he threw for 301 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 78 yards. That game helped secure a four-year, $160 million contract extension with the Giants ahead of the 2023 season.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Jones’ tenure in New York was marked by inconsistency. The No. 6 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft out of Duke, Jones posted a career record of 22-44-1 with 70 touchdown passes and 47 interceptions over six seasons. His time with the Giants ended last week after he was benched and effectively removed from the depth chart to avoid triggering a 2025 injury guarantee.
Giants owner John Mara described the decision to part ways with Jones as a mutual agreement in the best interests of both parties.
Looking Ahead
With this move, the Vikings gain a seasoned quarterback who could provide stability and flexibility during a critical transition period. For Jones, Minnesota offers a chance to reset his career and prove his value to a contending team.
Jones’ journey in Minnesota will be closely watched as the team navigates its present and future quarterback dynamics, fueled by hope for a seamless pairing with J.J. McCarthy or a potential extension with Sam Darnold.