Former Josh Heupel-coached QB at the center of intriguing NFL quarterback controversy
A quarterback that current Tennessee Vols head coach Josh Heupel coached when he was the offensive coordinator at Missouri is suddenly involved in an intriguing quarterback controversy. New York Giants quarterback Drew Lock, who played for Heupel at Missouri, signed with the Giants this offseason with the idea that he was replacing Tyrod Taylor as […]
A quarterback that current Tennessee Vols head coach Josh Heupel coached when he was the offensive coordinator at Missouri is suddenly involved in an intriguing quarterback controversy.
New York Giants quarterback Drew Lock, who played for Heupel at Missouri, signed with the Giants this offseason with the idea that he was replacing Tyrod Taylor as the primary backup to Daniel Jones.
Lock signed a one year deal worth $5 million to be the No. 2 quarterback on New York's depth chart.
That's why it was quite a surprise earlier this week when Jones was benched and Tommy DeVito was announced as the starter.
Lock spoke to reporters on Wednesday and he admitted that he's confused by the situation.
"That's a question I might still have for myself," said Lock about not being named the starter after Jones was benched. "It was expressed to me that I was going to be the No. 2. Interesting situation. Not much I can really say about it besides again, I'm going to be here for [DeVito]. We're still communicating, still very good friends, believe it or not. I'm going to be here for him, the team needs to get a win. We start winning and everything gets a little better around here."
DeVito played in nine games as a rookie for the Giants last season. His best game came in a win against the Washington Commanders when he passed for 246 yards and three touchdowns.
Lock, meanwhile, saw limited action last season for the Seattle Seahawks while playing behind starter Geno Smith.
The former Missouri quarterback started his career with the Denver Broncos. Lock's best season as a pro came in 2020 when he passed for 2,933 yards and 16 touchdowns. He also rushed for three touchdowns this season.
There's a little over a month left in the 2024 season, so it's still possible (if not likely) that Lock will see some action for the Giants. If he does, it'll be worth watching to see he develops a connection with second-year wide receiver Jalin Hyatt, a former Tennessee standout who excelled in Heupel's offense.
