Daniel Jones takes responsibility for benching: 'I did not play well enough'

(This story has been updated to add new information, correct an inaccuracy and to fix a typo.)

Daniel Jones spoke to reporters after Thursday's practice for the first time since the New York Giants benched him in favor of third-string quarterback Tommy DeVito.

Jones walked up to the podium and greeted reporters by letting them know he had something to say.

"I wrote this down just to make sure I say it the right way," Jones told reporters.

The veteran quarterback went on to address his six years with the Giants and what the future might hold for him after his benching.

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Notably, Jones began the statement discussing his time playing for the Giants in the past tense.

"The opportunity to play for the New York Giants was truly a dream come true," Jones said. "I am extremely grateful to the Mara and Tisch families for the chance to play here. The Giants are truly a first-class organization and I have nothing but genuine respect and appreciation for the people who have built it and have carried on its traditions."

Jones went on to thanks his teammates and coaches from his six-year tenure with the Giants. He also thanked the fans, saying their passion was "a huge part of what makes playing for the Giants so special."

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After that, Jones got into the meat of his speech. He addressed his benching and shouldered the blame for failing to live up to expectations after inking a four-year, $160 million extension with the team.

"There have been some great times, but we all wish there had been more of those," Jones said of his Giants tenure. "I take full responsibility for my part in not bringing more wins. Nobody wanted to win more games worse than me, and I gave everything I had on the field in my preparation."

"Of course this season has been disappointing for all, and of course I wish I could have done more," he added. "I'm 100% accountable for my part. I did not play well enough consistently enough to get the team results."

Jones also said that he understood the team's decision to bench him. He knows that he played a big role in the team seeking a change but also didn't let himself get discouraged about his future opportunities.

"I love the game. I love being part of a team," Jones said. "I'm excited for the next opportunity and know that there's a lot of good football in front of me. I'm excited about that."

Jones certainly didn't sound like a player who believes he will be back with the Giants in 2025, and his Giants exit turned out to be more hasty than expected. On Nov. 22, the Giants officially released Jones, ending his tenure in New York.

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Why the Giants release Daniel Jones?

New York didn't seem likely to release Jones before the end of the 2024 NFL season, but the Giants made the decision to release him on Nov. 22 after demoting him on the depth chart.

DeVito is set to start with Drew Lock backing him up. Meanwhile, the recently signed Tim Boyle was working ahead of Jones in practice, with the long-time Giants starter seeing some scout team work before his release.

That may not be the massive indictment of Jones' talent that it seems to be. In reality, the Giants likely benched Jones to avoid paying him a $23 million sum that would become guaranteed if he is injured while playing for the team.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Daniel Jones thanks Giants, takes responsibility for benching