In East Rutherford, New Jersey, the spotlight is shifting subtly toward the future of the New York Giants’ quarterback room. While Jaxson Dart has shown flashes of potential, the team is keeping veteran Russell Wilson under center for now.
Week 1’s disappointing 21-6 loss to Washington sparked chatter about a quarterback change, but the Giants are in no rush.
No Rush to Promote Dart
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Giants see “no sense of urgency” in elevating Dart over Wilson, despite the former Ole Miss star’s impressive college pedigree.
For the time being, Dart will continue learning behind Wilson as the team navigates the early season.
Wilson remains the confirmed starter heading into Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys.
Injury Complications on the Offensive Line
Dart’s timeline is also affected by injuries elsewhere on the team.
Left tackle Andrew Thomas, a second-team All-Pro in 2022, remains sidelined with a Lisfranc injury and is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s matchup.
James Hudson III is expected to start in Thomas’ place, protecting Wilson’s blind side and adding another layer of uncertainty to the Giants’ offense.
Wilson’s Camp Dominance vs. Game-Day Reality
Wilson entered training camp as the presumptive starter over Dart, the first-round pick, and veteran Jameis Winston.
Despite Dart completing 32 of 47 passes for 372 yards and three touchdowns in preseason, Wilson retained the starting role.
Plans for a Dart-specific play package were installed but went unused in the Week 1 loss.
Fans Call for Change, Dart Stays Ready
Giants fans have predictably been calling for Dart to take over after Wilson’s 17-for-37 showing and two costly sacks.
But Dart is taking it in stride. “I’m just preparing for whatever chance I get,” he told reporters Friday.
“It’s me just trying to be prepared and be ready whenever my number is called.”
Dart emphasized perspective, saying, “Anytime that you don’t win, people talk… You have to take all that with a grain of salt, and my job is to control what I can control and be the best teammate I can be.”
Wilson’s Calm Response
Wilson addressed the criticism with a simple social media post earlier this week: “Mentally Tough,” he wrote on X, signaling his focus despite outside noise.
Looking Ahead to the Cowboys
Wilson now faces a Dallas defense that allowed 21 first-half points to the Super Bowl-champion Eagles last week before tightening up in the second half.
The Giants’ offense will have to navigate this challenging matchup while keeping an eye on both Wilson’s performance and Dart’s readiness.