During the New York Giants‘ 31-12 win over the New York Jets, rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart delivered a standout performance, prompting renewed discussion of the Russell Wilson Giants quarterback debate. On this occasion, head coach Brian Daboll unexpectedly inserted Dart for a single play in the second quarter, giving the rookie a chance to demonstrate his progress.
Dart entered the game briefly, throwing a successful 30-yard pass to Theo Johnson before returning to the sidelines. The move was a strategic decision by Daboll to test Dart’s readiness and mental toughness without disrupting the veteran starter’s role.
After the game, Dart shared his initial surprise and growing mindset regarding his role on the team.
“I was like, ‘You serious?'” Dart said.
This brief appearance gave Dart valuable insight into the demands of staying prepared at all times, even when not expected to play extensively.
“I was like, all right, I didn’t know that I was going to go in for one play and then come back out,” Dart said as per ESPN. “So I think that’s just (that) he’s making up scenarios where you never know when your number’s going to be called, and you got to be ready for that.
“He’s done it in practices. So I think that that kind of taught me that I need to continue to warm up on the sideline. You just never know when things like that are going to happen.”
In the game, Dart completed 14 of 16 passes for 137 yards, throwing one touchdown and adding a rushing touchdown in the third quarter. His efficient performance has fueled speculation about his future with the team.
Assessing the Potential Shift in Giants’ Starting Quarterback Role
Russell Wilson joined the Giants as their veteran starting quarterback in the recent offseason, setting clear expectations among fans and analysts. Despite Wilson’s status, Dart’s impressive preseason displays have led many to wonder if Brian Daboll might eventually promote the rookie to the lead role in 2025.
Coach Daboll has addressed these rumors directly, affirming Wilson’s position while emphasizing Dart’s ongoing development within the team’s larger strategy.
“Russ is our starter. We’re going to keep developing Jaxson,” Daboll said.
Daboll also indicated that the organization has a structured plan for Dart’s growth as they approach the new season, leaving open the possibility for him to earn meaningful playing time as the year unfolds. The Giants will open their campaign against the Washington Commanders on September 7, setting the stage for critical evaluations of how their quarterback situation evolves.