Just over three months ago, the New York Giants sent shockwaves throughout the sports world when they used their sixth overall selection in the NFL Draft on former Duke quarterback Daniel Jones. Fans and media alike immediately expressed their disdain for the pick, with New York’s supposed blunder soon becoming the story of the draft.
The Giants took on the Jets Thursday night in both teams' preseason opener, giving Jones his first opportunity to prove all his doubters wrong. And for the Charlotte native, it was a step in the right direction.
After the Jets forced Eli Manning into a three-and-out on his lone drive on the field, Jones took over New York’s second offensive possession. It didn’t take long for the 2018 Independence Bowl MVP to show how he went from Blue Devil walk-on to the program’s second-highest draft selection since 1943.
On his very first snap, Jones fired a bullet between two defenders and into the hands of Cody Latimer for a five-yard gain. Seven plays later, a beautiful throw to the back corner of the end zone fell into the waiting arms of Bennie Fowler, tying up the score. The touchdown marked the end of the professional debut for Jones, who finished 5-for-5 for 67 yards and a score.
Across social media, the script quickly started to flip for the largely unknown quarterback, with Jones’ performance impressing analysts and providing hope for Giants fans as the franchise begins to prepare for the post-Eli Manning era.
New York takes on the Chicago Bears next Friday at 7:30 p.m. in the team's second exhibition contest.
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