In early 2023, the New York Giants made what’s now seen as a major blunder by signing Daniel Jones to a \$160 million contract—a decision that looks even more questionable given it may have been influenced by a 42-page “manifesto.”
This surprising detail comes from A.J. Stevens, VP of Client Strategy at the sports agency Athletes First. Speaking with Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team, Stevens recalled that contract talks for Jones were likely the most memorable of his career.
He revealed that Athletes First CEO Brian Murphy wanted to present the Giants with an in-depth look at the quarterback market and where Jones fit in. To do that, Stevens compiled a comprehensive 42-page document outlining the evolution of the position since around 2010—only unveiling their actual contract proposal on the final page.
Though Stevens admitted the approach felt “absurd” then and still does in hindsight, it worked. The Giants finalized the deal with just seconds left before the franchise tag deadline, narrowly avoiding having to use a short-term solution for their quarterback.
Daniel Jones
But the aftermath hasn’t been kind to New York. The rushed nature of the deal paints GM Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll as panicked and unprepared. Instead of prioritizing a long-term commitment to Pro Bowl running back Saquon Barkley, the team pushed ahead with a risky bet on Jones—a move they quickly had to adjust, restructuring his contract shortly after it was signed.
Jones struggled with the same issues that had plagued his career—turnovers, injuries, and inconsistent play—and the offense collapsed. His strained relationship with Daboll only worsened things, and by November, the Giants released him, signaling a dramatic reset for the franchise. The failed deal not only undermined the team’s short-term plans but also served as a cautionary tale the organization seems eager not to repeat.
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