In an emotional farewell to the New York Giants, Daniel Jones thanked the organization on Thursday, following his recent demotion.

It turned out to be a true farewell.

On Friday, team owner John Mara confirmed the decision to release Jones, explaining the reasons behind the split from their former first-round draft pick, who was drafted in 2019 and was believed to be the successor to two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning.

“Daniel came to see me this morning and asked if we could release him,” Mara stated.

“We mutually agreed that would be the best course for both him and the team. Daniel represented our organization with class and professionalism. His response to this situation cements that view. We are disappointed in how things played out, but we respect and appreciate Daniel, and we wish him the best for his future endeavors.”

This marks the end of Jones’ time with the Giants, as he departs before completing a four-year, $160 million extension he signed after a promising 2022 season, which saw the team reach the divisional playoffs and Jones performing at his best.

However, after suffering an ACL injury during the 2023 season, Jones struggled in 2024, reverting to his previous problematic habits, such as turning over the ball, which led to him losing his starting quarterback position and eventually his spot on the team.

“Playing for the New York Giants was a dream come true for me. I’m incredibly thankful to the Mara and Tisch families for the opportunity. The Giants are a top-notch organization, and I greatly respect everyone who has contributed to its legacy,” Jones expressed in a prepared statement to the media on Thursday.

“I have formed many meaningful relationships during my time here, and I’m grateful for the teammates, coaches, and staff who supported me over the past six years. While we experienced some great moments, I wish there had been even more victories. I take full responsibility for my role in not achieving more wins. There was no one who wanted to win more than I did, and I put everything I had into playing and preparing. This season has been disappointing for everyone, and I wish I could have done more. I hold myself fully accountable—I did not perform well enough or consistently enough to help the team succeed.”

“Winning games in the NFL is tough and requires consistent effort from all players. We just didn’t meet that standard. I love this game and being part of a team, and I’m looking forward to my next opportunity. There’s still a lot of good football ahead of me, and I’m eager for that. To all the fans, I genuinely respect and appreciate your passion for the Giants. You are a vital part of what makes playing here exceptional. Thank you.”

By letting him go, the Giants will face a salary cap hit of over $69 million, but there are no guarantees left on Jones’ contract for the rest of the season. Other teams in the NFL will have a chance to claim him once he is placed on the waiver wire; however, due to the size of his salary—specifically, the prorated portion of his $35.5 million salary for 2024—it’s more probable he will end up in free agency.

“I have a lot of respect for him,” Giants head coach Brian Daboll said regarding Jones on Friday.

“He was a true professional, and I wish him nothing but the best.”

The Giants are currently at the bottom of the NFC East with a 2-8 record. This week, they announced that rookie Tommy DeVito, who stepped in for Jones in 2023, will take over as the starting quarterback, with veteran Drew Lock acting as the backup. The signing of Tim Boyle to the practice squad clarified the team’s intention to move on from Jones, preventing any risk of triggering an extra $23 million injury guarantee.

Drafted sixth overall in 2019 from Duke, Jones finishes his time with the Giants having thrown for 14,582 yards, 70 touchdown passes, and 73 turnovers (including 47 interceptions and 26 fumbles). His career passer rating stands at 84.3, along with 2,179 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns, his best moments often coming when he used his athleticism effectively.

He concludes his career with the Giants with a record of 25 wins, 45 losses, and 1 tie across 71 starts, including playoff games.

“I want to play. I want to be on the field. I did everything I could to create a scenario where both sides felt comfortable,” Jones said when asked about waiving his injury guarantee.

“Most conversations were handled by my agent and general manager Joe Schoen. I want to play. I want on-field action. But it also involves the challenging business aspect of the sport.”

This story has been updated with new information.

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