Anatomy of a Franchise-Killing Decision: The Day the Giants Chose Daniel Jones Over Saquon Barkley

By: [Author Name]

August 10, 2023

The New York Giants' decision to select quarterback Daniel Jones with the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft over running back Saquon Barkley was a franchise-altering moment — and not in a good way.

Barkley, who had just won the Heisman Trophy as a junior at Penn State, was considered by many to be the best player in the draft. He was a dynamic runner with a rare combination of size, speed, and power. Jones, on the other hand, was a more raw prospect.

The Giants' decision to pass on Barkley in favor of Jones was met with widespread criticism at the time. Many experts believed that Barkley was the safer pick and that he would have a greater impact on the team's success.

Three years later, it's clear that the Giants made the wrong decision. Barkley has developed into one of the NFL's best running backs, while Jones has been a major disappointment. In 2022, Barkley rushed for 1,312 yards and 11 touchdowns, while Jones threw for just 3,205 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also threw 11 interceptions.

The Giants' decision to choose Jones over Barkley was a major turning point in the franchise's history. It set the team back several years and has contributed to their current struggles.

Here are some of the reasons why the Giants' decision to pass on Barkley was a mistake:

Barkley was the better player at the time of the draft.

Barkley has been more productive than Jones in the NFL.

Barkley is a more durable player than Jones.

Barkley is a better leader than Jones.

Conclusion

The Giants' decision to choose Daniel Jones over Saquon Barkley was a franchise-killing decision. It was a mistake that has set the team back several years. The Giants are now paying the price for that mistake.