Daniel Jones is hearing plenty of criticism for his rough start to the season after signing a big four-year deal that pays him $40 million per year, but Keith says that criticism is misplaced.
After all, what should be expected from Jones if he is only being given just over two seconds to get a pass off before he is met by the opposing pass rush?
“That is the hardest position to play when you don’t have protection,” Keith said. “He’s taking hits all game, and it’s hard to process information and make the right decisions when you feel like you’re on your own.
“He doesn’t have Saquon Barkley. A quarterback’s best friend is a good running back. He doesn’t have Andrew Thomas protecting his blind side. That’s comfort right there.”
Jones had a career year last year, but Thomas banged up his hamstring in the opening quarter of the opening game this season, and Barkley went down a week later. The offensive line has been a mess ever since, and Keith says it shouldn’t fall on the quarterback, who took 11 sacks on Monday night.
“I feel for Daniel Jones,” Keith said. “It’s gonna be a tough rest of the season. Help is not on the way. Even when they get Saquon and Thomas back, the season might be over. They might be 1-5. I wouldn’t even let Saquon and Andrew Thomas play in these next two weeks. I’d wait for the Commanders game.”
