Three Burning Questions (and Answers) About the Drew Lock Signing for Giants

Damian Parson answers three burning questions about the New York Giants' signing of QB Drew Lock.

The New York Giants were expected to add another quarterback to the roster this offseason. While many still anticipate (and hope) that a rookie quarterback will still be selected in next month's draft, the Giants had to first address what they would do as backup quarterbacks.

Losing veteran Tyrod Taylor to free agency (Jets) made the need for another veteran backup important. Despite the Linsanity-esque performance we witnessed from Tommy Devito, running it back with him as the questioned QB2 is risky at best.

Therefore, the Giants decided to sign former Denver Bronco and Seattle Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million. The once hyped signal caller was a fan favorite for his rendition of Young Jeezy’s “Put On” in 2019. More so than being known for his on-field talent in the NFL. He has never proven to be a starting-level quarterback at any point in his career.

But could he find new life under Giants head coach Brian Daboll? And what does Lock's signing mean for the Giants at quarterback moving forward?

Let's get you some answers.

Dec 10, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock (2) yells after throwing a touchdown pass against the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter at Levi's Stadium / Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Does the signing of Lock affect the Giants’ plans to draft a quarterback? 

It does not. Despite being uber-talented physically, Lock has yet to be a model of consistency with his play, whether it’s bad decisions that will put the ball in harm’s way or inconsistency with his accuracy and ball placement.

Lock will not impact the Giants' plan to approach the quarterback position in the draft—general manager Joe Schoen has said in the past that they could address the position in free agency and the draft.

If the plan is to roll with Daniel Jones as the unquestioned starter for 2024--and Schoen has said that's the expectation--Lock does not alter that plan; rather, he'll serve as the backup if misfortune strikes Jones.

If the plan is to select a quarterback with the sixth overall pick (or at some point on Day 2), Lock's presence will not disrupt that plan either. At this point in his career, Lock is a career backup with the talent that creates the "what if" questions and scenarios for his fans and believers. Talent was never the question; it's been the execution and effectiveness.

Does Lock fit the Giants' offense?

Yes! He has great arm talent and mobility, similar to what Daniel Jones possesses. Lock can push the ball down the field vertically, and head coach Brian Daboll has become accustomed to physically gifted passers who can stretch the field.

Lock will fit into this offense well. Daboll and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka can limit his reads and help steer him to easier ones if called on. Making the game simple for Lock is best for him to perform at the highest level.

The Giants' offensive concepts and playcalling got the best out of Jones in 2022, leading to him getting a new contract. There's no reason they can't do the same for Lock if he's called upon to play.

How can the Giants further develop Lock's game?

Daboll did great things with Josh Allen in Buffalo. His offense has been quarterback-friendly and does not stress them like some NFL offenses. Limiting post-snap processing allows his quarterbacks to play at a faster pace. He simplifies reads with variations of mesh concepts, crossers, and flat routes for easy layup throws.

This will help Lock make quicker decisions and force defenses to trigger downhill later in games, opening isolated deep shots down the field, which Lock can make if given time and opportunity.

In short, Lock will provide a solid depth piece to this quarterback room. But let's keep expectations in perspective: If anyone wants to improve the longevity of the quarterback position, Lock is not the answer like a 2024 draft pick could be. But Lock is a solid addition to a position that right now has a lot of question marks, given Jones's injury and the still-developing Tommy DeVito.

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