In the world of the New York Giants, drama never seems far away. As summer approaches, the talk of the town isn’t just about the upcoming season but also about who will stand under center if Daniel Jones isn’t ready to return. The latest buzz? A potential battle between Drew Lock and undrafted rookie Tommy DeVito for the backup quarterback position.
Drew Lock: The Inconsistent Newcomer
New York Giants beat writer Paul Schwartz recently addressed the swirling rumors in his mailbag column, shedding light on Drew Lock’s current standing with the team. “It is true that Lock was inconsistent during organized team activity practice No. 3,” Schwartz explained. “But Lock is in the early stages of his acclimation to the Giants, he is just now learning the offense and he probably does not know the names of some of the guys he is working with in the huddle.”
Lock, who signed with the Giants in March, has a contract that includes $3M in incentives related to playing time and performance. This move places him as the frontrunner for the backup role, especially as starter Daniel Jones recovers from a torn right ACL suffered in early November. However, his current form has led to some speculation about his security in that spot.
Tommy DeVito: The Dark Horse
Enter Tommy DeVito, the undrafted rookie who’s been making waves. Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post suggested that DeVito could potentially surpass Lock as the team’s QB2 if the latter “doesn’t clean up his nonchalant fundamentals quickly.” Despite this, Schwartz remains confident that the backup gig is Lock’s to lose as they head into June.
“Lock, 27, was signed to serve as the backup quarterback to Daniel Jones unless Jones is not ready to play Week 1 following knee surgery,” Schwartz continued. “In that case, the Giants believe Lock can start a game or two and give the team a chance to win. These snippets of practice the media is allowed to view this time of year is all there is to go on. Making too much of some errant throws from Lock in the spring seems unnecessary.”
Daniel Jones: The Hopeful Starter
Meanwhile, the man himself, Daniel Jones, has expressed optimism about his recovery. As Michael Eisen of the Giants’ official website shared, Jones is confident he will be cleared for contact before New York’s regular season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on September 8. This assurance from Jones could quell some of the urgency surrounding the backup quarterback situation.
The Preseason Showdown At New York Giants
While chatter about Lock possibly competing with Jones throughout training camp has died down, the real test will come when the quarterbacks face an opposing defense in an exhibition game. Until then, those speculating about DeVito’s chances of usurping Lock might want to temper their expectations. The preseason will provide the first true indicator of where each quarterback stands and whether Lock can solidify his position as the primary backup.
In the end, the battle for the backup quarterback spot is far from over, and Giants fans will be watching closely as Lock and DeVito vie for the crucial role. Will the experienced Lock hold onto his spot, or will the rookie DeVito emerge as the surprise contender? Only time, and a few exhibition games, will tell.
Source- Yardbarker