49ers: 5 teams that could have Niners-like turnaround in 2020

5 teams that could have 49ers-like turnaround in 2020

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 17: Quarterback Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals carries the football en route to scoring on a 22 rushing touchdown ahead of cornerback Jimmie Ward #20 of the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of the NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 17, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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Daniel Jones #8 of the New York Giants (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

No. 3: New York Giants

2019 Record: 4-12

The New York Giants turned heads in the 2019 NFL Draft, using the No. 6 overall pick on Duke quarterback Daniel Jones, who wasn’t overly predicted to go anything higher than late in Round 1.

Jones had his up-and-down moments his rookie year. But his 24 touchdowns against 12 interceptions suggest he can be a foundational piece, provided the G-Men can both protect him and solidify him with weapons.

Grabbing offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs early in the 2020 draft should help matters a lot, hopefully ending New York’s elongated struggles building a quality offensive line.

Yet one could argue the Giants defense is the force to watch here, particularly after adding quality blue-chip players like cornerback James Bradberry, linebacker Blake Martinez and EDGE Kyler Fackrell in free agency.

The Dallas Cowboys are obvious favorites in the NFC East, yes, while the Philadelphia Eagles aren’t far behind.

But don’t be surprised if New York is sniffing a playoff spot towards the end of the regular season, riding that defense.