Time for the Giants to End the Daniel Jones Era?

Former NFL offensive lineman Justin Pugh compares Giants rookie receiver Malik Nabers to Odell Beckham Jr., while questioning the future of quarterback Daniel Jones.

As the New York Giants navigate through a challenging season, former offensive lineman Justin Pugh has voiced his concerns about the direction of the team, particularly regarding quarterback Daniel Jones and the potential of rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers.

Pugh, who played alongside Odell Beckham Jr. during his tenure with the Giants, sees striking similarities between Beckham and Nabers. After just three games, Nabers has already established himself as a reliable target for Jones, amassing 23 receptions for 271 yards and three touchdowns.

Time for the Giants to End the Daniel Jones Era?

"It's exactly the same for me," Pugh told Fox News Digital. "You look at Odell's rookie year and how he caught the league on fire. We literally threw him slants, and he won us games. The Giants can do that this year with Malik Nabers."

The hope surrounding Nabers' arrival stems from the Giants' desperate need for a legitimate number one receiver since Beckham's departure in 2019. Pugh believes Nabers has the potential to fill that void, citing his impressive skills as a certified number one receiver.

Time for the Giants to End the Daniel Jones Era?

"He can go out there and big-body somebody, go over the top," Pugh said. "When Malik Nabers made that 50/50 grab, instantly I went to the Odell catch. This is his coming-out party."

Nabers' impact was evident in the Giants' victory over the Cleveland Browns in Week 3, where he hauled in eight catches for 12 targets from Jones, including two touchdowns. His highlight-reel leap and grab in the end zone showcased his exceptional talent.

Time for the Giants to End the Daniel Jones Era?

However, Pugh acknowledges the challenges that come with being a star player in New York City, especially for Beckham, who became a lightning rod for both admiration and criticism. He questions whether Nabers can withstand the intense scrutiny and maintain focus on his performance.

"Now comes the hard part: You're in New York City, you're a star. How do you deal with it?" Pugh asked. "That will make or break his career, because you look at Odell, it almost got to the point where Odell got so big that [former Giants GM] Dave Gettleman didn't want him there."

Time for the Giants to End the Daniel Jones Era?

Pugh emphasizes the importance for Nabers to stay grounded and avoid distractions while still embracing the opportunities New York City presents. He also recommends connecting with Beckham, who could provide valuable advice on navigating the pressures of stardom.

In addition to his concerns about Nabers' future, Pugh also expressed doubts about Daniel Jones' long-term viability as the Giants' quarterback. He believes Jones has failed to meet expectations and that it may be time to explore other options.

"I think they're still trying to get a gauge of Daniel Jones," Pugh said. "Is he the guy? We're not doing anything offensively, and I don't think it's fair to just pin it all on him. But there's a reason why he's not playing well and he's not the reason why we're not winning games."

Pugh's comments add to the growing chorus of voices questioning Jones' future with the Giants. The team has struggled to maintain consistency and has yet to make a significant breakthrough under Jones' leadership.

As the Giants look to turn things around, the future of both Jones and Nabers remains uncertain. Nabers has emerged as a bright spot, but his long-term success depends on his ability to handle the pressures of New York City and continue to produce at a high level. Meanwhile, Jones' future with the Giants is hanging in the balance, with his performance facing increased scrutiny.