What Would It Take for the Lions to Sign Daniel Jones?

On Friday, the New York Giants made a bold move by waiving quarterback Daniel Jones, opening the door for other NFL teams to claim him. This decision has sparked discussions among Detroit Lions fans, some of whom believe Jones could thrive as a backup to Jared Goff under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. However, the reality of acquiring Jones may be more complicated than it seems.

The Cost of Claiming Daniel Jones

Claiming Jones off waivers would come with a significant financial burden. If the Lions were to act before the Monday waiver deadline, they would be obligated to absorb the remaining $11,833,333 of his 2024 salary. This hefty price tag makes it highly unlikely for the Lions—or any other team—to make such a move for a player who is not expected to start.

Given Detroit’s current roster setup and cap considerations, taking on Jones at his current salary does not seem like a feasible option. As one insider remarked, “I do not expect Jones to be claimed by any NFL team.”

A More Affordable Option: Signing After Waivers

If no team claims Jones by the deadline, the scenario changes significantly. Once he clears waivers, Jones would become a free agent, and his salary could plummet to as low as $375,000—the NFL’s minimum. At this reduced cost, the Lions might consider adding him to their roster as a backup.

This approach would mitigate the financial risks while offering Jones an opportunity to reboot his career in a more stable environment. A signing at the league minimum would provide Detroit with an experienced quarterback for depth without jeopardizing their salary cap.

Should the Lions Take the Risk?

For some fans, the idea of bringing in Daniel Jones holds appeal. Despite his struggles in New York, they argue that poor coaching and a lackluster supporting cast hindered his performance. In Detroit, with a strong coaching staff and a well-rounded roster, Jones might find the structure needed to improve.

However, the Lions are also a team with serious playoff ambitions. They may hesitate to disrupt the chemistry in their quarterback room, especially with Jared Goff performing at a high level. While Jones’ presence could add experience, his track record in New York raises valid concerns about whether he could truly contribute to a Super Bowl-caliber team.

The Likelihood of Jones Wearing Honolulu Blue

In the end, the likelihood of Daniel Jones joining the Lions appears slim unless he clears waivers and agrees to a minimal contract. Even then, Detroit would need to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. As intriguing as it may be to add a former starting quarterback, the Lions are unlikely to make a move unless the terms are overwhelmingly favorable.

For now, fans will have to wait and see if Jones finds a new home in Detroit—or elsewhere.