NFL Rumors: The reason Brian Daboll’s Giants opted to sign Jameis Winston before Russell Wilson, and it’s not Aaron Rodgers

Brian Daboll and the New York Giants entered the offseason with the crucial task of choosing a new starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. After being linked with Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson, the team made an intriguing move by agreeing to terms with Jameis Winston last week.

While the Giants reportedly remain open to signing Rodgers, Winston’s arrival appears to decrease Wilson’s chances to play in New York. In fact, the team reportedly preferred the former Cleveland Browns quarterback over Russ for a significant reason.

During an appearance on PIX11 Sports, Paul Schwartz of the New York Post reported that Daboll’s Giants believe Winston could be a better fit for the locker room than Wilson.

“They feel Jameis Winston will be better in the room than Russell Wilson would have been, and better in the locker room,” Schwartz said, via Giants Wire. “Russell Wilson is kind of a to-himself kind of guy — popular guy and a good guy — but Jameis Winston has that effervescent personality.”

Jameis Winston throws a pass during the fourth quarter in the game against the New York Giants at Caesars Superdome on October 03, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Wilson could still end up in New York

NFL insider Jordan Schultz of FOX Sports reported on Friday that the Giants are signing Winston to a two-year, $8 million contract that could go up to $16 million with incentives.

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Schwartz’s comments indicate that it was either Wilson or Winston for the Giants, though he suggests not to completely rule out a move for the latter: “I don’t think it will happen but never say never. It could happen.”

The Giants look ready for a scenario without Rodgers

With Winston, Daboll gets some insurance at the position. We’re talking about a quarterback who boasts 87 starts in 10 years in the NFL. The team is reportedly leaving the door open for a star like Rodgers, but in case the 4x NFL MVP doesn’t choose them, Winston secures much-needed veteran presence in the Giants’ QB room.

Let’s keep in mind that the Giants hold the third overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which could be a great alternative to choose their next franchise quarterback. A player of Winston’s experience could help Daboll develop a rookie player taking his first steps in the league.