The Arizona Cardinals were not going to face quarterback Daniel Jones in 2024. They were not scheduled to face the New York Giants.
However, with Jones expected to be granted his release following his benching, there is a possibility the Cardinals could face him.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Jones will be released. Because it is after the trade deadline, he is subject to waivers, but with more than $13.8 million in salary still due, it would be shocking if a team claimed him.
Some possibilities for Jones immediately come to mind. The Dallas Cowboys lost Dak Prescott for the rest of the season. The Las Vegas Raiders are a mess at starting quarterback.
But he might be willing to be a backup for a team. The San Francisco 49ers have some uncertainty with Brock Purdy and his shoulder injury.
The Cardinals play the 49ers in Week 18.
They face the Seattle Seahawks this week and again in Week 14. They don’t appear to be a team who would consider him.
They play the Minnesota Vikings in Week 13. They are set with Sam Darnold as their starter, but Jones would certainly be a better option as a backup than Nick Mullens and Brett Rypien, and it would allow Jones the opportunity to play for a potential playoff team.
In Weeks 15 and 16, the Cardinals face the New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers. They both have young starters and solid backups.
The Los Angeles Rams, whom the Cardinals face in Week 17, have Jimmy Garoppolo as a backup. They don’t seem like a realistic destination.
San Francisco’s backups are Brandon Allen and Josh Dobbs. Jones would 100% be a fit there.
So could the Cardinals face Jones? It isn’t out of the question.
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