Someday, this might be certified as the launching pad, the exact time and place for the Daniel Jones liftoff.
More likely, this NFL debut for Jones will be the highly anticipated yet non-definitive first step for the rookie quarterback who one day will take over for Eli Manning. The Giants open up their preseason schedule Thursday night against the Jets at MetLife Stadium and Jones will either start (if coach Pat Shurmur decides to have Manning sit out) or at the very least receive substantial snaps, taking the field with starters and veterans and later with reserves and youngsters.