Pat Shurmur says Giants will play best player at QB

New York Giants coach Pat Shurmur met with the media Tuesday and addressed the topic that will trump all other talking points this summer: the quarterback competition.

Maybe calling it a quarterback competition is a little aggressive at this point, considering Eli Manning is the starter and there’s no reason to believe he won’t be on opening weekend. But first-round pick Daniel Jones has been everything the team had hoped for since drafting him sixth overall and he’s made enough ‘wow’ plays in minicamp settings to suggest he could ultimately be the Giants’ best option.

Shurmur’s comments Tuesday only add gasoline to that fire of speculation.

“We’re gonna play the very best player. I know we’re dancing around the words here, but right now Eli is getting ready to have a great year and Daniel is getting ready to play. We’ll just see what happens,” Shurmur said.

Shurmur added that Jones is on pace to play opening weekend if needed.

“He’s on track with the goal to be ready to play on Day 1.”

This is an interesting approach for Shurmur to take this early in the process. Jones hasn’t been with the team very long, and his performances in t-shirts and shorts is a far cry from what will unfold when the pads go on.

But it also goes to show just how impressive he’s been. He’s obviously making throws Manning can’t at this point in his career, and his athleticism has been on display throughout the offseason program. His ability to make plays with his legs (as well as push the ball downfield with greater effectiveness) are qualities that will make New York’s offense much more unpredictable and harder to defend.

Ultimately, that’s the goal for Shurmur and the rest of the coaching staff. And while Manning may be football royalty, winning is still the most important thing for Big Blue. If Jones gives them the best chance to do that, then it’s Jones who should play.