The New York Giants and New York Jets locked up for a joint practice on Wednesday afternoon, pitting quarterback Daniel Jones and rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers against All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner.
Although the Jets won the day, it was through no fault of Jones, who completed 13 of his 19 pass attempts for one touchdown and no interceptions. He was also sacked twice.
Jones likely would have had two additional touchdown passes, including one against Gardner, if not for drops by Nabers and rookie tight end Theo Johnson.
Despite the solid performance, Gardner couldn’t contain his laughter when asked to evaluate Jones after practice.
Meanwhile … Jets CB Sauce Gardner on what he thought about Giants QB Daniel Jones today. 🤷🏻♂️👇 pic.twitter.com/mdoz8PGaVf
— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) August 21, 2024
“He’s a good quarterback,” Gardner said, initially holding back his laughter. “It was very competitive.”
Gardner the began to chuckle and seemed to hold himself back from chirping about Jones.
“I had fun out there today,” he added. “I don’t know what to say.”
Reporters in attendance disrespectfully laughed along with Gardner despite Jones’ strong performance.
After the Gardner clip went viral, he attempted to explain himself on X, formerly known as Twitter, but it came off as disingenuous.
I said "he's a good quarterback", I just got a lil distracted with something mid interview😂 chilllllllll
— SAUCE GARDNER (@iamSauceGardner) August 21, 2024
Once again, punching down on Jones proves to be the popular “in thing” and points-scorer. It’s coming from all angles at this point, including from players Jones has bested on the field — if even for just one afternoon.