Sports

5 Things To Know About Giants' Draft Pick QB Daniel Jones

Jones' selection left a lot of people questioning why the Giants would make such a pick, but general manager Dave Gettleman 'loves' him.

Daniel Jones speaks after being selected with the sixth pick in the first round of the NFL Draft by the New York Giants.
Daniel Jones speaks after being selected with the sixth pick in the first round of the NFL Draft by the New York Giants. (Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — The New York Giants' pick of quarterback Daniel Jones was a bit of a mystery to everyone not named Dave Gettleman.

Here are some things you probably don't know about the heir-apparent to Eli Manning.

He already has a relationship with Manning

Jones played for coach David Cutcliffe at Duke University. Cutcliffe coached both Manning and his brother, Peyton in college, ESPN reported. Jones developed a relationship with the brothers through Cutcliffe. He attended the Manning Passing Academy multiple times.

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Giants General Manager Dave Gettleman 'Loves' him

Gettleman was convinced about Jones' ability after seeing him play three series at the Senior Bowl, ESPN reported. According to the report, Gettleman saw "a professional" and was in "full-bloom love," with Jones.

There was a range of opinions about him

One NFL scout called Jones a "backup" with "pedestrian talent," ESPN reported. A coach who watched Jones' tape said he has a "fairly high ceiling," and asked, "What box doesn't he check?"

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He could be a dual-threat quarterback

Jones, a two-time team captain, had a nearly-60 percent completion percentage in three years for the Blue Devils, his Duke biography and player stats page reads. He threw for 52 touchdowns and 29 interceptions and more than 8,200 yards. He also ran for more than 1,300 yards and 17 touchdowns.

He comes from a family of athletes

Jones graduated from Duke in December with a degree in economics. He has two sisters, Becca and Ruthie and a brother, Bates. Becca and Bates played field hockey and basketball at Davidson, respectively. Ruthie will play soccer at Duke beginning in the fall.


Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com

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