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It’s been almost a year since New York Giants general manager Dave Gettleman shocked the football world by selecting Duke quarterback Daniel Jones sixth overall in the 2019 NFL Draft.
The reaction among Giant fans ranged from despair and confusion to outright outrage. The Giants had bypassed a much-needed pass rusher in Kentucky’s Josh Allen to select Jones, a player many felt they could’c have taken at No. 17.
So, what is the general consensus at this point in time of the pick? ESPN revisited the 2019 NFL Draft and updated us on how each first-round section fared in their rookie year and what their projection of those players are.
“Here’s what we know with certainty about Jones: He is at least an average starter,” wrote ESPN Giants beat writer Jordan Raanan. “That is something considering that draft busts at quarterback, even in the first round, aren’t uncommon. Jones flashed enough to provide hope he can become much more than an average starter. He threw 24 touchdown passes with 12 interceptions in 12 starts. It’s simply a matter of whether Jones can cut down on the turnovers (23). Some of that can be attributed to rookie mistakes, but there are NFL talent evaluators who believe it’s an innate trait and his weakness. He should only get better in Year 2.
Rating: He’s a starter.”
True, although Giant fans would likely rate him a little higher. The turnovers will go away, especially the fumbles, and Jones will become more than just a serviceable starter.
Jones tossed five touchdowns in a game last season and threw four in two others. His ability to rush for first downs when plays break down is a welcome wrinkle and his penchant for extending plays will make him more than just the traditional drop back passer many had him rated as coming into the league. His new coaching staff should be able to unlock his potential to help him become a top-third tier NFL quarterback.
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