The Giants might not target a QB in the 2019 NFL Draft, but if they do, the prospect many view as the best won't be there. Justin Herbert is returning for his senior year at Oregon, the school announced on Wednesday.
Herbert said "My commitment to my teammates, our coaches, Duck fans, and the University of Oregon has never been stronger. I'll be returning to the University of Oregon for my senior year. Go Ducks!"
There was one more present under the tree. #GoDucks pic.twitter.com/ALeRv0zc1G
- Oregon Football (@oregonfootball) December 26, 2018
Giants GM Dave Gettleman, assistant GM Kevin Abrams, and scout Jeremy Breit all scouted Herbert in early November when Oregon played Utah.
In October, it was reported that Herbert was leaning toward staying in school for his senior year, but he quickly shot down that story.
"I haven't thought three seconds about it," he said about whether he'll declare for the 2019 NFL Draft.
Overall this season, the 6' 6" Herbert has completed 221 of 371 passes (59.6 percent) while tossing 28 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
With Herbert off the board, the top QB prospects could include Dwayne Haskins, Drew Lock, Daniel Jones, and Ryan Finley.
Whether or not the Giants select a QB in the Draft, the expectation is still that Eli Manning -- under contract through 2019 -- will be the Giants' starting quarterback entering the season.
However, Manning said "I don't know" on Wednesday when asked whether he expects to be the team's starting QB in 2019.