
via Imago
Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

via Imago
Dec 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
You know you’ve got respect in the locker room when a teammate hands over their jersey number without hesitation. That’s exactly what happened in New York! In a heartwarming moment, Deonte Banks gave up his No. 3 to R͏ussell Wilso͏n. As we know, this number has always remained Wilson’s signature, dating back to his days in Seattle. Banks—who made no fuss—stepped aside, thus proving that Wilson isn’t just joining the Giants. Rather, they are welcoming him with open arms.
Wilson immediately took to social media, posting a story on his Instagram account by writing, “Salute to my guy & young star Tae Banks! Grateful for you letting me wear #3 King! Full of gratitude.”
Now, Banks has also responded to Wilson’s Instagram post, resharing it with “💯💯💯💯💙”—no drama, just respect. The Giants have also made it official, dropping the announcement, “Number 2 for Tae!”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
But it prompts yet another question. Wasn’t Shedeur Sanders No. 2 in college? As Banks wears No. 2 and the Giants hold the third overall pick, does that mean Shedeur isn’t on New York’s radar? Or would Banks, who already changed numbers three times in three years will be ready to switch it up again if the Giants take the Colorado QB?
Notably, Banks, the Giants’ 2023 first-round pick, wore No. 25 (rookie year), No. 3 in 2024, and No. 2 in 2025.

via Imago
December 8, 2024, Hookstown, Pennsylvania, USA: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback RUSSELL WILSON 3 walks off the field after warming up before the NFL, American Football Herren, USA football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Hookstown USA – ZUMAg257 20241208_zsp_g257_062 Copyright: xBrentxGudenschwagerx
With Wilson on the team, as he signed a one-year, $10 million contract, he is expected to start in September. However, his long-term future is uncertain. Amidst this, Jameis Winston, fresh off a two-year deal, is ensuring he stays afloat. The New York Giants have made a strong move as they signed Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston while still considering drafting a QB with the third overall pick.
But now, with his statement, Winston has cleared the air.
Jamie Winston states the Giants’ QB dichotomy
Winston has stated he has cleared the Giants’ intentions. The veteran QB knew the Giants kept scouting to add to the quarterback room. Nonetheless, he still signed his contract without hesitation.
He remarked, “Yeah, absolutely. I knew a free agent signing was going to come, or maybe even a draft pick was going to come. But that’s their business. My business is today, and today I have the privilege of finally becoming a Giant.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad

via Imago
January 4, 2025, Hookstown, Pennsylvania, USA: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback RUSSELL WILSON 3 looks to throw the ball downfield during the NFL, American Football Herren, USA football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Hookstown USA – ZUMAg257 20250104_zsp_g257_045 Copyright: xBrentxGudenschwagerx
And when it comes to his role? Winston doesn’t need any special treatment.
To date, he has played every role a QB can, whether as a starter, backup, relief guy, or even injury replacement. He adds, “I didn’t get a clean explanation of my role because I played so many different roles already. I’ve played every role that the quarterback room has to offer, so I’m ready for anything.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With two veteran QBs on the team, the real question is, who will have the starter job? Russell Wilson is the logical choice if the Giants go for a safe, steady QB play. However, Winston can make things interesting if they want to explore explosiveness and risk-taking.
But if the NFL Draft wildcard pans out, it could flip the entire battle.
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
What’s your perspective on:
Is Russell Wilson the Giants' savior, or is Jameis Winston the real game-changer for New York?
Have an interesting take?