As the New York Giants prepared for training camp, Russell Wilson was widely expected to take the starting quarterback role following his offseason signing. However, Jaxson Dart’s impressive performance throughout camp has sparked debate, with ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum suggesting that Dart should be the team’s starter instead.
Tannenbaum, who once served as general manager of the New York Jets, drew parallels to 2009 when Mark Sanchez, a former number one overall pick, began the season as the Jets’ starting quarterback and helped his team reach the AFC Championship. He believes Dart has similar potential to elevate the Giants’ long-term success more than Wilson.
Assessment of Dart’s Potential Compared to Wilson
Based on his observations from training camp and the preseason, Tannenbaum views Dart as a more dynamic and promising player for the Giants’ future. He emphasized the positive impact Dart has had not only on the field but also within the Giants organization.
Jaxson Dart is a better player and he’s a better athlete than Russell Wilson,
Tannenbaum said Tuesday on NFL Live. Look, I understand there’s going to be growing pains, but he is somebody that’s energized this franchise. He understands what to do. And when you talk to the Giants organization, they’re actually more thrilled with what he’s doing off the field than on the field. —Mike Tannenbaum, ESPN Analyst
Tannenbaum also pointed out physical concerns with Wilson, citing his decline in athleticism and high sack rate last season, which was significantly above league average. He believes that even though Dart will make mistakes early on, his youth and upward trajectory make him the better option moving forward.
Russell Wilson, to me, is an athletically diminished player. He was sacked at a rate 31% above the league average. So is it going to be perfect from Day 1? Absolutely not. He will make mistakes. But a young, ascending Jaxson Dart is what the New York Giant franchise needs because that’ll make them better in November and December. Russell Wilson, who’s had a good career, is clearly closer to the end.
—Mike Tannenbaum, ESPN Analyst
Jaxson Dart’s Position on the Giants’ Depth Chart Before Final Preseason Game
The Giants traded up in the NFL Draft to select Dart after his standout tenure at Ole Miss, where he set the school’s all-time passing record. During two preseason appearances, Dart has completed 26 of 35 attempts for 291 yards with two touchdowns through the air, adding a rushing touchdown on top of 29 rushing yards.
Despite his preseason success, the Giants’ depth chart ahead of their last preseason matchup still lists Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. Jameis Winston, a fellow offseason addition, is currently the backup, with Dart positioned as the third-string quarterback. Tommy DeVito rounds out the quarterback roster as the fourth option.
The Giants are set to conclude preseason play against the New England Patriots this Thursday at 8 p.m. ET.
Implications for the Giants’ Quarterback Future
The debate between Wilson and Dart highlights a critical decision point for head coach Brian Daboll and the Giants’ leadership. Choosing Dart as the starter would mark a shift toward developing a young signal-caller with a strong athletic profile and growth potential. Conversely, relying on Wilson represents a continuation with a veteran who may be past his athletic peak but still brings experience.
Tannenbaum’s endorsement of Dart suggests the Giants may prioritize long-term gains over immediate comfort, aiming to build a sustainable offense that improves late in the season and beyond. How the coaching staff navigates this choice in the coming weeks could significantly influence the trajectory of the Giants’ quarterback situation and overall team development.