The New York Giants are no closer to agreeing a new deal with quarterback Daniel Jones, and they may use their franchise tag to avoid him entering free agency.
That's according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, who claims that the Giants have been attempting to negotiate with Jones' agents at the NFL Combine this week, with the franchise tag deadline fast approaching. The Giants are keen to keep Jones with the franchise, and the quarterback is open to staying, but salary demands remain an issue.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, a 'big number is on the table' for Jones as the Giants look to secure his long-term future. But if they can't reach an agreement before March 7, they could use their franchise tag.
Jones is coming off the back of his best season in Giants colours, throwing for 3,205 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also picked up 708 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, two of which came in their play-off win against the Minnesota Vikings.
It's a crucial period for the Giants, as they're attempting to tie down both Jones and star running-back Saquon Barkley, who are both heading towards free agency as things stand. The Giants were a surprise package last season, and there's a lot of optimism within the franchise that they could be Super Bowl contenders.
But those aspirations may hinge on the future of both Jones and Barkley, and it's likely their tag will be used on one of them. Long-term deals have been discussed with the representatives of both players, but nothing has been signed just yet.
General manager Joe Schoen spoke highly of Jones back in January, and seemed confident that he'd remain with the franchise for the foreseeable future. "We're happy he's going to be here," Schoen told reporters.
"Hopefully, we can get something done with his representatives. And that would be the goal—to build a team around him where he can lead us and win a Super Bowl."
But if the Giants do lose one of their offensive stars it could be a major setback, and representatives of both Jones and Barkley are doing their best to secure the best contract for their client. After a stunning season, it comes as no surprise that those in Jones' corner are holding firm, but they risk butting heads with Barkley's camp.
