Giants QB Daniel Jones Set to Return Against Texans in Game Action

New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones is set to return to the field in Saturday’s preseason matchup against the Houston Texans.

Jones is recovering from a torn ACL in his right knee, an injury he sustained last November. Now over eight months post-surgery, he missed Thursday’s preseason opener against the Detroit Lions but has participated fully in practice since being cleared before the training camp began.

Last week, Jones expressed a strong desire to play, stating he would “like to play,” while acknowledging he would defer to head coach Brian Daboll’s decision. This shows his eagerness to compete but also respect for the coaching process.

Throughout training camp, Jones has taken all the first-team snaps without showing any limitations due to his knee. The coaching staff has even had him practice running quarterback draws, implying his readiness for gameplay scenarios.

Nonetheless, Jones understands that actual game performance presents a different challenge for his recovering knee.

“I think it’s valuable to get game reps and to feel that. My knee feels good, and I feel ready to go,” Jones said recently. He has diligently tested his knee, ensuring everything is in line for a return to the field and is confident about its readiness.

This season is pivotal for both the Giants and Jones, who is entering the second year of a four-year, $160 million contract. The deal offers the team a manageable exit strategy after the current season if necessary. Throughout the offseason, there were considerations regarding his position as the Giants explored alternative options.

Drew Lock, who signed with the Giants to back up Jones for $5 million ensured, has recently faced setbacks due to injury. Lock is nursing a hip pointer and an abdominal strain sustained during the preseason opener, which leaves the Giants’ quarterback situation vulnerable.

With Lock sidelined for the game against the Texans, the Giants will rely heavily on a healthy Jones and rookie Tommy DeVito at the quarterback position.

While the quarterback corps endure challenges, the Giants are bolstered by having their offensive line strengthened. Offensive tackle Evan Neal has returned after being activated from the physically unable to perform list. Neal, who was the seventh overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, underwent ankle surgery earlier this year.

Although the organization had hoped for Neal to be back at the start of the training camp, he spent the initial three weeks on the PUP list but is now back in action.

Additionally, the Giants are anticipating the return of starting center John Michael Schmitz, who has been recovering from a shoulder injury. His return before the regular season starts would further stabilize the offensive line.

With these developments, the Giants are preparing for the upcoming game with a focus on the health and performance of their key players, hoping to establish a strong start to the season.