Daniel Jones, the rookie quarterback for the New York Giants in 2019, completed 16 passes that went more than 20 yards downfield for 498 yards and nine touchdowns. He then completed 20 passes for 652 yards and six touchdowns in 2020 without throwing an interception. At that point, Jones had proven himself as one of the most promising long ball passers in the game.
A Steep Decline in Deep Passing
But since he injured his ACL, Jones’ deep ball has essentially disappeared. Jones, who was formerly renowned for his ability to spread the field, has only completed three passes this season that have gone more than 20 yards downfield. A considerable distance is usually covered by the short throws that follow the reception in terms of yards.
Jones has gained just 92 yards, threw one interception, and failed to score a touchdown in those three deep completions. This inability to score on big plays, something head coach Brian Daboll was renowned for when serving as offensive coordinator with the Buffalo Bills, has greatly hindered the Giants’ attack.
Daboll’s Adjustments and a Stifled Giants Offense
This offseason, Daboll had high expectations for a more potent offense, but he was forced to modify his playbook to take into account Jones’ strengths and present limitations. The majority of the team’s output has therefore come from short-yardage plays. For 406 yards and two touchdowns, Jones has completed 53 throws between 0 and 9 yards from the line of scrimmage. Nineteen completions totaling 148 yards have been made on passes that have been launched behind the line of scrimmage.
Unfortunately, there is no long-term viability to this approach. Stretching the field is essential for an efficient offense because it creates openings for players like rookie Jalin Hyatt and playmaker Darius Slayton. Because there haven’t been many deep ball attempts this season, both wide outs have been almost invisible.
Jones Believes He’s Ready to Bounce Back
Despite these difficulties, Jones is optimistic that progress will soon be made. Although he conceded that his deep throws haven’t been consistent this season, he thinks he’s almost back to his normal rhythm.
Jones stated, “I think each one’s different.” “During the first few weeks, I’d thrown a few guys out in circumstances where I thought it was best to give them a chance, and then I left some short.” I believe that I am presently in a good place. It really just comes down to throwing it and having faith in it. Throughout my career, I believe I have thrown the deep ball well, and I have always felt confident in that aspect of my game. So, I’m sure I can accomplish that successfully.
Mental and Physical Hurdles for Jones
Jones’ difficulties with the deep ball may stem from lingering mental or physical repercussions of his knee injury. This season, many of his throws have fallen short, suggesting a possible hesitancy to fully trust his body or a slight decrease in arm strength. Whatever the reason, the Giants’ offense will continue to struggle until they can reliably take advantage of deep-pass opportunities.
Currently, the Giants are averaging only 15 points per game, placing them third worst in the league, just ahead of the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins. They are tied with the Jacksonville Jaguars, making them one of the least efficient offenses in the NFL. Furthermore, they rank in the bottom half of the league in total yards per game, a situation worsened by an inconsistent rushing attack.
More Challenges Ahead for the Giants’ Offense
Running back Devin Singletary has been struggling to find his rhythm this season and may miss Week 5 due to a hamstring injury. The team is also likely to be without standout rookie receiver Malik Nabers, who is currently in concussion protocol. In Nabers’ absence, the Giants will need to rely more on Slayton and Hyatt to make plays downfield, which means Jones will have to step up and successfully connect on deep passes, increasing the pressure on an already struggling offense.
For the Giants to effectively move the ball against a tough Seattle Seahawks defense, Jones must deliver on big plays. With Nabers out and the rushing attack underperforming, Jones is in a crucial position. To turn the tide, the deep ball—once a key aspect of his game—needs to become a dependable weapon once again.
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