In a first for his five-plus-year career, Daniel Jones is a free agent -- though that status isn't expected to hold for long.
Jones officially cleared waivers Monday afternoon following his Friday release from the New York Giants and is now eligible to sign with any team.
Drafted sixth overall in the 2019 NFL Draft by the Giants, Jones signed a lucrative extension prior to the 2023 season. Thus, he'd never previously hit the open market, but that officially changed Monday.
Jones wasn't expected to be claimed, as any squad doing so would be on the hook for $11.83 million left on his contract this season and would also take on a $23 million injury guarantee.
Instead, Jones, who was benched last Tuesday and later asked for and was granted his release, is bound for an altogether fresh start with a new team and contract.
What's next for Jones isn't likely to be in question for too long, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that the ex-Big Blue franchise QB should have suitors aplenty.
Potential landing spots are as diverse as the role Jones could play.
Rapoport suggested the San Francisco 49ers could come calling depending on how serious Brock Purdy's shoulder injury is.
Whereas the Las Vegas Raiders could look to Jones as a stop-gap to finish out the season strong while auditioning to become a bridge QB beyond this season. Those odds likely increased with Gardner Minshew now out for the season.
He could also be a backup for a contender such as the Baltimore Ravens or Buffalo Bills.
The 27-year-old leaves New York with a 2-8 record as a starter this season, having completed 63.3% of his passes for 2,070 yards, eight touchdowns and seven interceptions with 265 yards and two TDs on the ground.
The Danny Dimes free-agency watch begins now.
