“He's a great leader, guys respect him”- Eli Manning is excited to see Daniel Jones leading NY Giants after $160M extension

Daniel Jones entered the 2022 NFL offseason pending free agency after his contract expired with the New York Giants. The franchise declined to pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie contract, putting his future with the team in serious jeopardy. He responded by putting together the best season of his four-year career in just about every statistical measure.

Jones' breakout year earned a massive contract extension from the Giants as he avoided becoming an unrestricted free agent. The deal is worth $160 million over the next four years, putting him among the NFL's highest-paid quarterbacks. He's locked in as their franchise quarterback for at least the next few years.

Giants legend Eli Manning, who preceded Daniel Jones in the same position, recently shared his thoughts on the "Pat McAfee Show":

“I was so so happy for Daniel. ... I mean, he's done everything the right way. He's done everything they've ever asked him to do. Hey, you have to run it 12 times today? Sure. I'll run it. I'll throw it. He knew he had to cut down on the fumbles and the turnovers, he's done that, he's worked at it. He's been conscious of it.

"He's a true professional. He's a great leader. Guys respect him. So, I'm excited for him. I think he'll just continue to grow. He hasn't been in the same offense, you know, for multiple years and now, you know, in the same offense, other guys in the same offense around him, get things going. I think he'll just continue to get stronger and better.”

Eli Manning expressed his pride in passing the Giants' torch to Daniel Jones. Manning is one of the most successful players in franchise history, winning two Super Bowls. Perhaps Jones will ever match Manning's accomplishments, but the 2022 NFL season gave the franchise optimism for a bright future.

Daniel Jones proved his worth for the Giants during the 2022 NFL season

Daniel Jones, left, and Eli Manning

Daniel Jones excelled in his first season under new coach Brian Daboll while leading the Giants to the playoffs. In addition to improved passing numbers and reduced turnovers, he was one of the NFL's most impressive rushing quarterbacks. His breakout year also came despite having one of the worst wide receiver groups in the entire league.

With another year of experience and a full offseason to continue learning about Daboll's system, it's fair to expect Jones to take another step forward. The franchise has also committed to adding more weapons to the offense, including acquiring Darren Waller via trade. His 2022 production and 2023 projections are likely why the Giants felt confident giving Daniel Jones a major contract.