The New York Giants have made waves by benching quarterback Daniel Jones, only to start third-string rookie Tommy DeVito instead of the more experienced Drew Lock. While DeVito is a fan favorite, Lock’s stronger arm and NFL experience seemed to make him the logical choice. The surprising move has now drawn scrutiny for reasons that go beyond on-field performance.
A Financial Decision?
According to Spotrac, the Giants’ decision to sideline Lock may be financially motivated. Lock’s contract includes performance-based incentives that could net him $250,000 bonuses for achievements like playing a certain percentage of snaps, maintaining a high passer rating, or throwing more than 15 touchdowns. By keeping Lock on the bench, the Giants avoid triggering those payouts.
This approach suggests the Giants are pinching pennies in what has become a disappointing and financially strained season. Fans and analysts alike have noted how rare—and disheartening—it is for a big-market NFL team like the Giants to prioritize cost-cutting over fielding their best roster.
DeVito Over Lock: A Tough Sell
If the Giants believe Lock and DeVito are equally capable of running their struggling offense, choosing DeVito for financial reasons reflects poorly on the organization’s priorities. This tactic is typically seen in small-market baseball teams rather than a franchise with the financial muscle of the Giants.
Performance concerns may also play a role, as the Giants’ offense has been dismal all season. However, Lock’s stronger resume as a former second-round pick with starting experience would arguably give the team a better chance to salvage dignity in an otherwise doomed campaign.
Jones’ Contract Looms Large
The decision to bench Jones also appears to be financially driven. If Jones were to suffer a significant injury, the Giants would be on the hook for an eight-figure injury guarantee in 2025. By keeping him sidelined, the team avoids that risk while still grappling with the fallout of a contract many see as a misstep.
The Giants’ front office now faces criticism for managing their roster with financial incentives in mind rather than competitive integrity. As DeVito takes the field, questions about his starting role over Lock will likely persist unless his performance silences critics.
Looking Ahead
This season has become a cautionary tale for the Giants, with Daniel Jones’ contract hamstringing their roster decisions and now, potentially, their quarterback choices. DeVito has an uphill battle to prove he belongs under center, especially with fans questioning whether this decision reflects the team’s priorities—or its struggles to recover from past financial missteps.
