Is Jaxson Dart the long-term answer for the New York Giants at Quarterback?
The New York Giants entered the 2025 offseason with a clear mandate: find a franchise quarterback.
After a disappointing 2024 season that saw the team finish 3-14, general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll were under pressure to address the quarterback position, which had been a revolving door of mediocrity since the retirement of Eli Manning. With the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Giants went for Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, a generational talent, instead of a quarterback, but managed to trade back into the first round to select Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart at No. 25 overall.
But questions looms, is Jaxson Dart good enough to be the long-term QB solution that the Giants have been searching for? With veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston signed to short-term deals, the Giants have built a bridge to the future. Is Dart the player to overcome them and carry the franchise forward? To answer this, we must analyse Dart’s college career, the Giants’ broader draft strategy, and the context of their offseason moves.
Dart: As a prospect
Jaxson Dart’s time at Ole Miss produced notable stats: 10,617 career passing yards and 28 wins as a starting quarterback, both school records. In 2024, he topped the SEC with a 69.3% completion rate and 4,279 passing yards, throwing 29 touchdowns to six interceptions. His efficiency metrics — 10.8 yards per attempt and a 180.7 passer rating — led the FBS, reflecting his fit within Lane Kiffin’s offense.
Yet, his NFL transition raises red flags. Kiffin’s system, with its reliance on simple reads and schemed targets, may have padded Dart’s numbers, leaving doubts about his ability to navigate complex NFL defenses. Scouts highlight his struggles under pressure, where he tends to lose poise—a vulnerability against pro-level speed.
Physically, Dart offers a strong arm and solid mobility (495 rushing yards in 2024), paired with leadership intangibles. His pro success, though, depends on adapting to the mental demands of the NFL.
How will the Giants get on in 2025?
The New York Giants’ 2025 off-season strategy blended immediate reinforcement with long-term vision. In the draft, they prioritised defence by selecting Carter at No. 3 overall, enhancing a unit already featuring Dexter Lawrence and Brian Burns. This move, along with later picks to address depth, signalled a commitment to building a robust foundation.
Off-season signings of veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston complemented this approach. Wilson, expected to start, and Winston provide experience and stability, allowing rookie Jaxson Dart to develop without immediate pressure. Head coach Brian Daboll’s offensive system, which suits Dart’s skill set, further supports this transitional phase, positioning the Giants for both present competitiveness and future growth.
Will Dart get game-time this year?
Given the Giants’ setup, and those ahead of him, Dart will not start immediately. Wilson is slated to be the Week 1 starter, with Winston as a capable backup. This allows Dart to learn without the pressure of being thrust into action too soon, a luxury that could accelerate his growth. If Dart can refine his decision-making and pocket presence while leveraging his natural abilities, he has the potential to become the franchise quarterback the Giants have been seeking.
Dart possesses many of the traits NFL teams covet: arm talent, mobility, competitiveness, and a knack for big plays. His college production is undeniable, and he enters a favourable situation with veteran mentors and a strong defense to support him. The Giants’ history with Ole Miss quarterbacks also offers a glimmer of hope — Manning, another Rebel, led the franchise to two Super Bowl victories.
However, there are legitimate concerns. Dart’s reliance on a simplistic college offense raises questions about his ability to handle the speed and complexity of the NFL. His tendency to falter under pressure and his need to improve his progression-based reads are red flags that cannot be ignored. While he has the physical tools to succeed, his development will hinge on how quickly he can adapt mentally.
