Saquon Barkley wants to see pal Daniel Jones get a fresh start: ‘Sucks to see how things went down’

· New York Post

Saquon Barkley is rooting for his former Giants teammate Daniel Jones.

Jones was granted his release from the Giants on Friday after he had been benched as starting quarterback earlier this week.

Barkley, who signed with the Eagles this offseason and is having a phenomenal year amid the change of scenery, was asked about his reaction to Jones’ release during media availability on Friday.

Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles shakes hands with Daniel Jones #8 of the New York Giants following the game at MetLife Stadium on October 20, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Philadelphia defeated New York 28-3. Getty Images

“I’m not going to speak too much on that. I’ve been in contact with him. Our friendship has stayed close throughout the whole process of me being here. It sucks to see how everything went down for him over there [with the Giants],” Barkley told reporters.

“I’ve got nothing but great things to say about him. You’re not going to find anybody who’s really got a lot of negative things to say about him. But it’s the NFL. Hopefully, wherever he ends up next, they’re gonna get a guy who will come in and work. [Coming from the Giants], I’m doing well [with the Eagles]. Hopefully, he can find the same kind of fresh start and success.”

Jones was in the second season of a four-year, $160 million contract with about $80 million fully guaranteed.

An injury guarantee made the Giants less likely to put him on the field, forcing the team to sign Tim Boyle to the practice squad and demoting Jones to fourth-string.

Giants quarterback Daniel Jones #8, speaking to the media after practice on Thursday. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

He spent Tuesday playing safety on the scout team.

With the Giants at 2-8 — tied with the Jaguars and Raiders for the fewest wins in the league — everyone involved ultimately felt it was best for Jones to part ways.

“Daniel came to see me this morning and asked if we would release him,” Giants owner John Mara said in a statement on Friday.

Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) reacts after his touchdown run against the Washington Commanders. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

“We mutually agreed that would be best for him and for the team. Daniel has been a great representative of our organization, first class in every way. His handling of this situation yesterday exemplifies just that. We are all disappointed in how things have worked out. We hold Daniel in high regard and have a great appreciation for him. We wish him nothing but the best in the future.”