EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Jaxson Dart, the rookie quarterback for the New York Giants, is leading by example. Rather than shying away from the franchise's past failures, Dart confronts them head-on, treating the negativity like a defender at the first-down marker. His fearless approach could be the catalyst the Giants need to break free from their decade-long slump. During Thursday's stunning victory against the Eagles, where the Giants dominated 34-17, Dart showcased his electric performance both on and off the field.
“We can’t be naive to everything. We hear what people say. Definitely lights a fire in us,” Dart expressed after the game. He acknowledged the lingering negativity surrounding the team but emphasized that as newcomers, he and his fellow rookies are focused on the future. Dart completed 17-of-25 passes for 195 yards, including one touchdown, and he rushed for 60 yards and another touchdown on 10 carries, excluding kneel-downs. These impressive statistics only hint at the energy he injected into his first prime-time game and division matchup.
Head coach Brian Daboll has been known for his reserved demeanor during press conferences, but his excitement for Dart is palpable. “When you have a guy who can make loose plays, everything doesn’t have to be perfect. That’s a benefit,” Daboll remarked, alluding to his experience with Josh Allen in Buffalo. “This guy is a good guy to have.” Daboll’s faith in Dart is profound; he made headlines earlier this season by benching Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson to give Dart the starting position.
Following Thursday's victory, Daboll attempted to emphasize that the win was a team effort but couldn't help praising Dart, saying, “I’ve liked everything about Dart since we got him.” This admiration was particularly evident when Dart faced a scary moment late in the third quarter when he was sacked. After a brief evaluation in the medical tent, Dart returned to the field, showcasing his determination and resilience.
Despite the challenges posed by the NFL's concussion protocols, Dart demonstrated his commitment to the game. “It felt so long,” he said about the time spent in the medical tent. “I understand they have protocol and whatnot. I was just trying to get out there fast.” Upon his return, the Giants had a tough three-and-out possession, but Dart's teammates rallied around him, showcasing the collective spirit of the team.
In a crucial moment, cornerback Cor’Dale Flott intercepted an Eagles pass, setting up a touchdown that solidified the Giants' lead. Dart acknowledged the significance of the win, especially against a team that just won the Super Bowl, stating, “It absolutely is a statement win.” The confidence within the locker room was palpable, and Dart’s fearless play style, highlighted by his decision to dive headfirst into Eagles linebacker Jihaad Campbell for a first down, has not gone unnoticed. Linebacker Brian Burns praised Dart’s approach, stating, “He’s just playing fearless right now.”
Dart’s ability to balance aggression with safety will be critical as he matures in his role. He explained his mindset as a rusher: “There’s just situations where if it’s third down, I’m going to get the first down.” His legs have made him a dual threat, and during the Giants' opening possession, Dart displayed this talent by evading pressure from the Eagles’ defense and scoring a touchdown against All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun.
Under Dart’s leadership, the Giants have scored touchdowns on their opening possessions in all three of his starts, a stark contrast to their previous performance over the last 54 games under Daboll. Despite missing key players like Malik Nabers and Darius Slayton, Dart efficiently navigated the offense, completing 11-of-15 third downs and scoring touchdowns on every trip into the red zone.
With Daboll incorporating concepts from Ole Miss' offense, Dart's comfort level was evident as he executed plays with precision against the Eagles. Following the game, Daboll reiterated the importance of having a young leader like Dart. “It’s good to have this young leader,” he stated, underscoring Dart's role in the team's future.
Dart, for his part, has embraced the leadership challenge, expressing his passion for winning and his desire to turn the franchise around. “I love it. I understand the most important thing for everybody is winning. As competitors, that’s how we feel, too,” Dart said. His confidence is contagious, and with performances like Thursday's, both Dart and the Giants are poised for a brighter future.
