The Daniel Jones saga in New York reached its inevitable conclusion last week when the Giants released the quarterback after five-plus tumultuous seasons. Once viewed as the franchise savior, Jones found himself benched in favor of Tommy DeVito before ultimately being let go.
The fallout was brutal, with critics dissecting everything from his $160 million contract to his inability to elevate a struggling Giants offense.
While many in the NFL world are ready to turn the page on Jones, one unexpected voice has thrown his support behind the quarterback: NBA superstar Kevin Durant.
Kevin Durant is rooting for Daniel Jones to succeed
Appearing on the Up & Adams show with Kay Adams, Durant didn’t mince words when asked about Jones’ departure from the Giants. “I like Daniel Jones,” Durant said. “I wanna see him get with a club that’s gonna let him play his game.”
The two-time NBA champion’s comments quickly went viral, showcasing just how far-reaching the Daniel Jones debate has become. The connection between Durant and the Giants quarterback isn’t obvious at first glance, but Durant, a DMV native and lifelong Washington fan, seems to have taken a personal interest in Jones’ career trajectory.
Durant’s endorsement comes at a critical time for Jones, who is now on the hunt for his next NFL home. His tenure with the Giants was marred by inconsistency, but Durant’s comments highlight the other side of the debate. For all his struggles, Jones has shown flashes of potential - whether it was his mobility, accuracy in the short game, or his impressive 2022 campaign that included a playoff win over the Vikings.
Durant’s support might not sway an NFL front office, but it does bring a refreshing perspective to a player who has become a lightning rod for criticism. His belief Jones can thrive in the right system echoes what some fans and analysts have argued: the quarterback deserves a fresh start, one that allows him to maximize his skill set.
For Jones, having a figure like Kevin Durant in his corner is both unexpected and meaningful.
It’s rare for an athlete of Durant’s caliber to weigh in on another sport, but his words reflect the respect that transcends their different fields. Now, it’s up to Jones to prove Durant (and anyone else who still believes in him) right.
As Durant said, all Jones needs is a club that will “let him play his game.” Whether that opportunity comes remains to be seen, but the quarterback’s next chapter is officially one to watch.
