Daniel Jones agrees with new team

Former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones has signed a contract with the Minnesota Vikings. This was confirmed by a source ESPN on Wednesday.

Jones became a free agent on Monday after clearing waivers, indicating a mutual decision to part ways with the Giants.

Sources reported ESPNInsider Adam Schefter said Jones preferred to sign with a playoff contender. The Vikings were among his potential destinations.

In Minnesota, Jones will serve as the backup to Sam Darnold, another former New York quarterback who revived his career with the Vikings. Darnold led the Vikings to an impressive 9-2 record in his first season.

Jones joins the Vikings after six seasons with the Giants, where he mostly served as the franchise quarterback. The No. 6 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft from Duke University finished his time with the Giants with a 22-44-1 record, 70 touchdown passes and 47 interceptions. On Friday, New York announced its intention to part ways with Jones.

Team owner John Mara said in a statement that the organization and Jones “mutually agreed” that this move was “best for him and the team.”

After Jones was benched last week, he was effectively no longer part of the Giants’ depth chart to avoid risking injury. Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell praised Jones on Monday without specifically addressing the team’s interest in the quarterback. “I have great respect for Daniel Jones as a player and a person,” said O’Connell.

“I got to know him during the draft process a few years ago. Now that he’s a free agent and there’s probably a lot of interest around the league, Daniel will make the decision that’s best for him and his career. I’m sure “He’s working through that process right now. … All I can say is that I’ve been a big fan of Daniel for a long time and I hope his next step is a good opportunity for him.”

Information from ESPN‘s Kevin Seifert were used in this report.