Cowboys Rule Out Pursuing Daniel Jones After Release by Giants

Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones confirmed Friday that the team has no plans to sign quarterback Daniel Jones following his release from the New York Giants earlier in the day. 

"I think we're in good shape at our quarterback spot," Jones said, as reported by The Athletic's Jon Machota. "We think Cooper (Rush) gives us the best chance to win right now. And certainly, we still want to see some. We'll kind of see how the season goes here." 

Jones also emphasized the team's focus on evaluating Trey Lance while maintaining their commitment to starter Dak Prescott. "We still really want to see (Trey) Lance and like what he brings to the table. And then, of course, long term, we all know we made our commitment to Dak (Prescott)," he added. 

Daniel Jones, 27, became a free agent Friday after the Giants waived him following his benching earlier this week. Though he is subject to waivers, he is not expected to be claimed due to his hefty contract—a four-year, $160 million deal signed in 2023. He will be eligible to sign with a new team starting Monday. 

Drafted sixth overall by the Giants in 2019, Jones leaves the team with 70 touchdown passes and 47 interceptions over 70 games. He compiled a 24-44-1 record as a starter and guided New York to the playoffs during the 2022 season but struggled with consistency throughout his tenure. 

Meanwhile, the Cowboys have faced challenges at quarterback after Prescott suffered a season-ending hamstring injury on Nov. 3. In his absence, Dallas has been outscored 68-16 in two games with Rush under center. 

The Cowboys also have Lance, who joined the team in 2023 following a trade with the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick. Despite being the third overall pick in the 2021 draft, Lance has had limited opportunities and has thrown only six passes since joining Dallas. 

Jones expressed confidence in the decision to acquire Lance. "We'd do that again. He's a top-tier pick. A guy we had at the top," he said. "Dak was coming up for contract. We wanted to take a look at a good, young talent and didn't feel like we could get anything from a quality standpoint like we could get with Trey." 

Looking ahead, the Cowboys remain focused on evaluating their current quarterback roster. Lance, 24, is under contract with Dallas through 2025. 

The 3-7 Cowboys are set to face the Washington Commanders this Sunday.