5 QBs the Giants could replace Daniel Jones with in New York

Perhaps An LSU Star Makes The Most Sense For NYG

Giants Option No. 3: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

No quarterback has elevated his NFL Draft stock as much as Jayden Daniels. The expected Heisman Trophy front-runner has 50 total touchdowns on the year, with 5,000 all-purpose yards and only four interceptions.

If the Giants find themselves without a top-two pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, it will likely require them to pivot to a prospect like Daniels. But make no mistake — there are far worse consolation prizes than the LSU star.

Daniels is a bit lanky, and he has some growing to do with his progressions, but all the talent is there to be a high-end starter in the NFL. His ball placement and dual-threat capabilities make Daniels a worthwhile risk as the third quarterback off the board.

Giants Option No. 4: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Alternatively, J.J. McCarthy is a polarizing prospect amongst the NFL Draft community. While his sheer talent is undeniable, including above-average arm strength and an elite athletic profile, his production and level of responsibility at Michigan cause question marks in his projection.

With the Wolverines, McCarthy hasn’t been asked to carry the squad on a weekly basis in the way that Drake Maye, Caleb Williams, and Jayden Daniels have been tasked with doing. While it’s unfair to pin that on the Michigan signal-caller, it is a valid concern when he arrives to the NFL, especially if he is taken early in Round 1.

Still, for Brian Daboll, McCarthy would present a souped-up version of Daniel Jones — at the very least. That is a rather stable floor, and although it would be less exciting than the previous three names, it could finally result in a long-term option behind center for the Giants. McCarthy’s pre-draft process will be a fascinating one to watch.

Michael Penix Jr. And Bo Nix Are Realistic Options At The 2024 NFL Draft

Giants Option No. 5: One Of The Old Men

Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix are making waves in the Pac-12 this season. The two long-time starters in college have elevated their play to unreached heights. Penix Jr. has his Washington Huskies undefeated heading into the conference championship, while Nix’s only loss has been at the hands of Penix Jr. The rematch will commence next weekend, with tons of NFL evaluators in attendance.

As far as their prospects go in the NFL Draft, it is anyone’s best guess. Penix Jr. and Nix will both be 24-year-old rookies. While that might not read as too alarming to the average fan, I assure you it is something NFL teams will take into consideration. For reference, C.J. Stroud, the favorite for NFL Rookie of the Year, will not turn 24 until Year 3 in the league.

However, for the Giants, an immediate starting option — no matter their age — could be worth it on Day 1. Personally, I’d be willing to target Penix Jr. and Nix in the backend of Round 1, but a top-five pick presents too much of an investment. Perhaps New York would take a different player at the top of Day 1 before using its multiple second-round picks to move back into the first round for Penix Jr. or Nix.