As Gio scanned the “scrap heap guys” that the Giants or Jets could turn to for their next quarterback (assuming Aaron Rodgers retires and whoever Big Blue drafts isn’t NFL ready as a rookie), he felt largely uninspired by the choices that were out there.
So, he went outside the box and looked towards Arizona and a potential trade candidate and former No. 1 overall pick.
“It’s indoors versus outdoors most of the time…but I watched more Kyler Murray this year than I had in the past, and it’s the best I think he’s looked,” Gio said.
“He wasn’t bailing out and running like crazy. He’s protecting himself, he makes throws, he’s accurate…if they want to move on from him, with the way the scrap heap looks, I would do my due diligence if I’m not drafting a quarterback.”
Murray, a two-time Pro Bowler, bounced back in his sixth NFL season, posting a 68.8 percent completion rate (his best since his last Pro Bowl campaign) while throwing for 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. His sack percentage was the lowest it’s been in four years, and started every game of the season. the 27-year-old carries a hefty cap hit, but Gio will leave it to Joe Schoen or the Jets new GM to see if they would finesse such a move. It’s one that would intrigue him and make either team more watchable in a season where not much will be expected of either squad.
“If they draft a guy, the odds of him stepping up next year and being great are slim,” Gio said.
“I’m trying to think outside the box…is there a guy who’s out there that is good and maybe just needs a change of scenery? Kyler Murray popped in my mind.”