New York Giants, QB Daniel Jones say neck injury no longer a concern

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The New York Giants and quarterback Daniel Jones feel good about his health. They don't seem to have any doubts about his neck injury, even though it cost him six games last season.

Jones said during a conference call that he would be cleared and ready to go.

The team and quarterback have been steadfast in their belief that the neck injury Jones suffered late last year would not be a long-term problem. A source said that Jones was close to returning before the end of the season.

Jones should be ready to go for the summer program now that the Giants have time. After spending the weekend cheering on his brother, who was on the Duke men's basketball team that reached the Final Four, Jones was there Monday.

Strength and conditioning is the main part of the program. Jones won't need to face any contact until the preseason in August, so there isn't any need for him to be cleared for contact right away. He has been training at the team facility without limitations for much of the summer.

Even with a new general manager and coach in place, Jones will be the starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Tyrod Taylor signed a two-year contract with New York.

Throughout the off-season, the Giants have maintained their confidence in Jones. He was declared the starter by the team at the annual meetings. John Mara said the organization had done everything they could to screw this kid up since he was here.

It was something that caught Jones attention.

I'm excited. I am excited to get here. He said he appreciated the support, but it was his job to prepare the team to win games. I take that responsibility very seriously and that is what I am focused on.

The Giants have not won a game since Jones was drafted. He has 49 turnovers in 38 games as the starter and they are 12-25 with him.

Jones is in the final year of his contract. The Giants have to make a decision on whether to exercise a fifth-year option. Joe Schoen said last week that the discussion still needs to be had.

Jones doesn't seem concerned.

There will be a time and place for those conversations. When it comes up, we will do that. I am focused on what we are doing here and taking advantage of every day we have here.

It was the first time that players could get their hands on a new playbook. Jones and the rest of his teammates can look at what the new coach has put together.

There is a lot to be done.

Jones said that his focus was on preparing himself. We have not won enough games. We have not scored enough points. We have not done things well enough.

I take responsibility for that as a quarterback. You are a big part of those things. That is what I am focused on. I am working on improving and making sure I am ready to go every day.