Phil Simms knows the New York Giants organization better than just about anyone. As their quarterback for 15 seasons from 1979-1993 and then as a national broadcaster, he’s been around the Giants for 40 years.
When asked recently to give his take on the Giants’ quarterback situation — in which Eli Manning, entering the last year of his contract, will be challenged by first-round pick Daniel Jones — Simms called it like he sees it.
Simms believes the Giants will play both, but only if the Giants aren’t winning. If they are heading toward the postseason, he sees the Giants riding with Eli and playing Jones when they can, if at all.
“I really think it’s set up for Eli to have a good year,” Simms said on ‘MSG 150,’ per NJ.com. “If the chance comes up that maybe it’s not going well, they lose games, then Daniel Jones. If they think they can give him a shot somewhere during the year, they’ll take it. But only if the Giants think they are out of the race.”
No one is sure what the Giants’ plan is. Head coach Pat Shurmur has been cryptic about who will play, but did confirm that Manning is the starter. He also praised Jones and said that his goal was making sure Jones was ready to play this season.
The Giants’ roster is deeper and more diverse than in recent years. Their offensive line is improved, and Manning has an excellent supporting cast of players at his disposal such as running back Saquon Barkley, tight end Evan Engram and wide receivers Golden Tate and Sterling Shepard.
“I really believe that Eli Manning, with his position and his knowledge, they’ve put a really good team around him on the offensive side,” Simms said. “I think he has a chance to have maybe one of the best years of his career statistically.”
And that will leave little on the table for Jones in his rookie season. After 2019, all bets are off. The Giants can move on without Eli and hand the reins to Jones and get on with their future.
This is actually a good thing for the Giants. It will give Manning the proper sendoff the fans want to see and also provide them with a clear picture of what the future holds.
