The New York Giants are keeping their options open at quarterback as they await a decision from Aaron Rodgers. On Tuesday, the team is set to meet with veteran quarterback Jameis Winston, adding another name to their growing list of potential signal-callers for the 2025 season.
Giants Still in the Hunt for Rodgers but Exploring Other Options
The biggest domino yet to fall in the quarterback market remains Aaron Rodgers, and the Giants are believed to be one of the teams in serious contention for the future Hall of Famer—if he decides to play next season at all. Rodgers, who missed most of the 2024 season due to an Achilles tear, is reportedly weighing options between the Giants, Minnesota Vikings, and Pittsburgh Steelers, with the Giants being viewed as a frontrunner for his services.
However, with Rodgers yet to commit, the Giants have been proactive in evaluating backup plans. In addition to Winston, the team has also met with Russell Wilson and Joe Flacco, both of whom remain available.
Wilson, who was released by the Denver Broncos, has also been in talks with the Steelers, awaiting clarity on whether Pittsburgh will stick with Kenny Pickett or bring in another veteran. According to reports, Wilson is ready to sign with a team but is waiting on Rodgers to make his decision before finalizing his next move.
RELATED: Russell Wilson ‘Ready to Sign’ While QB Market Hinges on Aaron Rodgers, per NFL Insider
Winston’s Previous Connection to the Giants
Winston, a former No. 1 overall pick, is no stranger to the Giants’ radar. During Super Bowl LIX media week, former Giants running back Saquon Barkley openly lobbied for Winston to consider New York, telling him, “New York needs a quarterback right now.” Winston responded at the time with interest in the idea, making this upcoming meeting with the team a natural next step.
Winston’s Recent Performance and Fit with New York
Winston spent last season with the Cleveland Browns, stepping in as the starter after Deshaun Watson suffered a season-ending Achilles tear. While he showed flashes of his big-play ability, his tenure with the Browns ended in a benching.
In seven starts and 12 total appearances, Winston completed 61.1% of his passes for 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, finishing the season with a 2-5 record as a starter.
The Giants could view Winston as a bridge quarterback or as competition for Daniel Jones, whose long-term status remains uncertain following a torn ACL in 2024. New York also holds the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, where they could target a young quarterback, making Winston a short-term solution while a rookie develops.
What’s Next for the Giants?
With Rodgers’ decision still pending, the Giants are casting a wide net, making sure they aren’t left scrambling if their top choice heads elsewhere. Winston’s visit adds another layer of intrigue to the team’s quarterback plans, and while he may not be the splashy name that Rodgers is, he brings starting experience and a high-upside arm that could provide stability if the Giants choose to move on from Jones.
As the QB market continues to take shape, all eyes remain on Rodgers, Wilson, and Winston, with the Giants poised to make a major decision in the coming weeks.