This isn’t the start anyone in the NFL was hoping to see from the Giants‘ QB Daniel Jones on August 17, 2024, against the Texans. He threw two interceptions in the first quarter, including a costly pick-six by the Texans. Jones’ decision-making surprised everyone, and ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky did not like this at all.

“Anyone who’s ever heard me talk about Daniel knows that’s the sticking point for me,” Orlovsky asserted via Get Up ESPN. He noted that the decision made by any player in a panic situation with the ball is a determining factor. “The determining factor on whether you’re going to be good, really good, great, or subpar,” he pointed out.

It’s been a couple of years since Jones played a standout season for the Giants, and that’s the one thing he successfully cut out. He emphasized that it’s a matter of concern for the Giants HC Brian Daboll as the highs don’t make up for it. Jones hasn’t thrown for three touchdown passes in a game since 2019 and Dan believes that, “If he was lighting up the scoreboard, it would be a different conversation, but to have that rear its ugly head, that’s got to be an issue.”

There’s no denying the fact that Jones’ interceptions led to a poor game. On his very first snap, he made an ill-advised pass into the Texans’ cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.’s chest. Further, when Jones was under pressure in the end zone, he threw to avoid giving up two points on safety but passed the ball into the Texans safety Jalen Pitre’s hand, who grabbed the opportunity and converted it into an interception touchdown.

This was not just a mistake and exposed his entire decision-making process under pressure. Even the QB himself understood the situation and agreed it was a “bad decision and a bad throw,” via the Giants’ official website.

If the Giants want to overcome their 6-11 record from last season, Jones will have to improve his game significantly. And if Daniel Jones can’t control his interceptions, the Giants’ season could be another disappointment. But what is the HC’s take on his QB’s performance?

HC Brian Daboll on Daniel Jones

This was Jones’ first game after the ACL injury, and he faced some challenges. The veteran quarterback finished the day with a record of 11-18 with 138 yards and two interceptions. After the game, Giants’ head coach Brian Daboll commented on the mixed results. He took part in an evaluation in the preseason and said he expects further improvements.

“That’s what these games are for too,” Daboll said, according to the NFL’s official website. “I wanted to make sure we had enough plays where we were throwing it down the field. Again, there was some good things, good to get him out here and then a couple things we’ll learn from, and that’s what these things are for.”

The Giants hope to ensure there are no injuries during the preseason games, which the quarterback also discussed. Talking about his health, Jones shared, “Didn’t start perfect. but we got going and I feel good physically.” Also, he expressed deep gratitude to all those people who helped him, including doctors, trainers, and team staff.

Jones had led the team to the postseason in 2022. But, even before the injury, he took a step back last season, scoring just 909 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. This season is truly going to be make-or-break for him, as the franchise will have to assess whether the 2019 draft is the right choice for their long-term plans.