Lions among teams expected to have 'significant interest' in Daniel Jones

Daniel Jones' time with the New York Giants has come to an official end, after he was benched, used a scout team safety in practice and asked to be released. Once he clears waivers on Monday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported he would prefer to finish the season with a playoff contender.

According to FOX Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Detroit Lions are among the teams expected to pursue Jones.

"Sources: There has been significant interest in former # Giants QB Daniel Jones since his release. Once he clears waivers, expect the Ravens, Vikings, Lions, 49ers, and Dolphins to pursue him — not only for a chance to join a contending team, but also to develop in an offensive system where he can learn and grow."

"A decision could come as early as this week, sources say."

The Lions of course have Jared Goff firmly entrenched as their starting quarterback. But backup Hendon Hooker is simply not very experienced, and if something happened to Goff it's an open question how he'd perform as the starter.

Lions look like the ideal fit for Daniel Jones

Jones started 69 regular season games over six seasons with the Giants after they drafted him sixth overall in the 2019 draft. His best season came in 2022 (3,205 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, five interceptions; 708 rushing yards and seven touchdowns), when the Giants made the playoffs and won a Wild Card Round game over the Minnesota Vikings.

Through 10 games this season, Jones has 2,070 passing yards with eight touchdowns and seven interceptions as the Giants started the season 2-8.

Noting the work offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has done with Goff, and Goff being in a similar place in his career when he landed in Detroit, John Maakaron of SI.com wondered about the Lions being interested in Jones before Sunday's report came,

On one hand, Jones should want to go somewhere he can play right away to end this season so he can rehab his value going into the offseason. But if he wants to join a playoff contender and "develop in an offensive system where he can learn and grow", the Lions look like an ideal fit-and arguably they're the most ideal fit for him.