New York Giants’ Quarterback Quest Narrowed to Three as Super Bowl Champion Rejects Their Pitch
As the NFL offseason progresses, the New York Giants’ quarterback search has entered a critical phase. After weeks of speculation and ongoing discussions, the team’s quest to find a reliable quarterback to lead their offense in 2025 has reportedly been narrowed down to three primary candidates. However, one notable name has already ruled himself out of contention, rejecting the Giants’ pitch to become the team’s next signal-caller.
Super Bowl Champion Rejects the Giants’ Offer
The quarterback the Giants hoped would be a potential game-changer for their franchise is none other than veteran Super Bowl champion Jimmy Garoppolo. A key figure in the San Francisco 49ers’ successful playoff runs, including their Super Bowl LIV appearance, Garoppolo was reportedly at the top of the Giants’ wish list. His experience in high-pressure situations and ability to lead a well-balanced offense were traits that the Giants believed could help their roster take the next step toward contending in the NFC East.
However, despite the Giants’ pitch, Garoppolo has declined to join Big Blue, instead opting to stay with the Las Vegas Raiders, who recently signed him to a multi-year deal in an effort to bolster their quarterback room. While the exact reasons behind his decision have not been officially confirmed, insiders suggest that Garoppolo preferred the stability and familiarity with the Raiders’ system over a potential move to the Giants.
The rejection is a tough blow for the Giants, who had hoped to bring in a seasoned leader capable of elevating the team’s offense. With Garoppolo out of the picture, the Giants are now focusing on other potential quarterbacks who could fit their needs.
The Remaining Contenders
Although the Garoppolo pursuit has come to a disappointing end for the Giants, the team’s search for a quarterback is far from over. According to reports, the Giants have zeroed in on three top options who could help fill the void at the most important position on the field. Each of these quarterbacks brings a unique set of skills and attributes that could benefit the Giants’ offense in different ways.
Here’s a breakdown of the three remaining candidates:
1. Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints)
One of the top free-agent quarterbacks available, Derek Carr has already met with the Giants and is considered one of their primary targets. Carr has been a consistent performer throughout his career, throwing for over 4,000 yards in multiple seasons and displaying the ability to lead an offense with both accuracy and poise. His strong arm and ability to make throws down the field could be a perfect fit for the Giants’ offense, which needs a quarterback capable of pushing the ball vertically while also managing the game effectively.
Carr’s experience in the AFC West has given him a tough, competitive edge, and he could bring much-needed stability to the Giants’ quarterback position. His leadership qualities, combined with his impressive statistics, make him a strong candidate. However, with several teams reportedly vying for his services, including the New Orleans Saints, the Giants will need to act quickly and make a compelling case for why Carr should join them.
2. Daniel Jones (Re-Signing)
The Giants could look inward to address their quarterback situation. Daniel Jones, the team’s incumbent starter, is still a viable option to return to the fold. After showing flashes of brilliance in 2024, particularly in the postseason, Jones has earned the right to be considered for a long-term deal. His mobility, combined with his ability to protect the football and run the offense efficiently, makes him a valuable asset to the team.
However, Jones’ contract situation is a key factor in this decision. The Giants have not yet reached an agreement on a long-term contract with the quarterback, and his future in New York will depend on whether the team can meet his contract demands and create a competitive supporting cast around him. Re-signing Jones would provide continuity in the quarterback room and allow the Giants to keep developing their offense with the same signal-caller who helped lead them to the playoffs in 2024.
3. Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens)
The biggest wildcard in the Giants’ quarterback pursuit is former MVP Lamar Jackson, who has been embroiled in contract disputes with the Baltimore Ravens. Jackson’s dual-threat ability—his electrifying speed and ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs—would instantly make the Giants a dangerous offensive unit. The Giants have not publicly stated their interest in Jackson, but the possibility of acquiring him has gained traction due to his unique skill set and the potential for a change of scenery.
If the Giants can pull off a trade with the Ravens or potentially sign Jackson to an offer sheet, it would represent a dramatic shift for the franchise. The former MVP would bring a dynamic playmaker to the quarterback position, one capable of changing the game with his athleticism. However, the cost of acquiring Jackson, both in terms of assets and the financial commitment required, would be substantial, and the Giants would need to carefully weigh whether his style of play is the right fit for their offense.
What’s Next for the Giants?
The Giants are in a critical moment of their offseason, and their decision on which quarterback to pursue will shape the direction of the team for years to come. With the rejection of Jimmy Garoppolo, the focus has now shifted to either securing a proven veteran like Derek Carr or working out a long-term deal with Daniel Jones, who has earned another opportunity in the starting role.
While Lamar Jackson is the most intriguing option, the Giants will need to navigate the complex nature of acquiring a player of his caliber and figure out how his skill set would mesh with Head Coach Brian Daboll’s offensive philosophy. Jackson’s unique talents would certainly add a new dimension to the Giants’ offense, but the high price tag and the uncertainty of a new system may make him a riskier option.
Ultimately, the Giants’ quarterback quest has been narrowed down to three main candidates, each with distinct pros and cons. The team’s success in 2025 and beyond will depend heavily on the decision they make at quarterback—whether they choose to stick with Jones, bring in Carr for stability, or gamble on Jackson’s upside.
As the NFL offseason continues to unfold, the Giants will need to act quickly to solidify their quarterback situation, as other teams around the league are also making moves to improve their signal-caller positions. The clock is ticking, and the future of the Giants’ offense could hinge on the quarterback they choose to lead them into the next chapter.