BREAKING: Giants Pin Hopes on Jaxson Dart — But Is New York’s QB Gamble About to Backfire?

Rookie QB Jaxson Dart Prepares for NFL Debut with Giants

Ole Miss product Jaxson Dart is set to begin his NFL journey this season after being selected by the New York Giants in the first round of the 2025 Draft. It’s a significant move—marking the first time since arriving in New York that general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll have used their top pick on a quarterback.

The Giants are coming off a dismal 3-14 finish, dead last in the NFC East. With pressure mounting on the front office and coaching staff, there’s hope that Dart could be the spark the franchise desperately needs to turn things around.

What’s the Plan for Dart?

At just 22 years old, Dart arrives with promise and strong backing from the team’s leadership. He’s viewed as a potential franchise quarterback, someone who could be central to Daboll’s offensive system and Schoen’s long-term vision.

CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards noted: “The Giants traded up into the first round to secure Dart. There had been whispers of the coaching staff’s strong interest before draft night, and they’ve only doubled down since. Dart might very well hold the key to Daboll and Schoen’s future beyond this season.”

Still, the immediate plan isn’t to throw Dart into the fire. GM Joe Schoen has publicly stated that Dart will start the season behind veterans—most likely Russell Wilson—while he learns the ropes. Edwards echoed this strategy: “New York will almost certainly start veteran Russell Wilson Week 1, but the franchise is expected to ready Dart for action by season’s end.”

Early Signs of Promise

Dart has already impressed during offseason workouts. Teammates and coaches have praised his poise and talent, particularly his arm strength. Veteran wide receiver Darius Slayton told reporters, “He’s a smart kid and can definitely spin it. You can see the arm talent—no doubt.”

His college résumé is strong: Dart led the SEC in passing yards with 4,279 last season and was one of the nation’s most efficient quarterbacks. As a rookie, he’ll have to earn his spot behind Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, but the upside is clear.

With rookie minicamp fast approaching, Dart has an opportunity to show that the confidence his coaches and teammates have in him is well placed. If he shines, the path to becoming the Giants’ quarterback of the future could come sooner than expected.