Giants Embrace Patience with Rookie Quarterback Jaxson Dart

The New York Giants are taking a deliberate approach with rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, drawing comparisons to how the Kansas City Chiefs managed Patrick Mahomes during his inaugural NFL season. Dart, selected with the 25th overall pick in the first round from Ole Miss, is currently serving as a scout team quarterback while learning from veteran starter Russell Wilson.

At practice in East Rutherford, N.J., Dart mimics the playing styles of established quarterbacks like Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders and Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys. His role involves running through the starters’ practice scripts with younger receivers, such as Jalin Hyatt and Beaux Collins, while he absorbs the playbook designed by head coach Brian Daboll and offensive coordinator Mike Kafka.

Dart has seen limited action thus far, participating in just three snaps during the Giants’ recent 40-37 loss to the Cowboys. As the Giants seek their first win of the season against the Kansas City Chiefs on October 15, 2023, Dart continues to emulate Mahomes’ style during practice, a strategic decision reminiscent of the Chiefs’ handling of their young quarterback.

Daboll and Kafka, who played a significant role in Mahomes’ development as the Chiefs’ quarterbacks coach, are committed to nurturing Dart’s growth. “He’s got to see the game through the quarterback’s eyes on the sideline,” Daboll explained. “Each day we’re trying to groom him, and when he has to play, he’ll be ready to play.”

The Giants’ decision to mentor Dart rather than rush him into the starting role mirrors the approach taken with Mahomes during the 2017 season, when he sat behind Alex Smith. This method aims to allow Dart to develop a deeper understanding of the game while benefiting from the experience of Wilson and third-string quarterback Jameis Winston, who have a combined total of 288 starts between them.

While Wilson’s recent performance has quieted calls for Dart’s immediate promotion, the rookie quarterback remains prepared for the possibility of starting if the team’s struggles continue. His teammates support the decision to prioritize his development over a quick transition to a starting role. Defensive lineman Rakeem Nunez-Roches, who spent time with Mahomes in Kansas City, emphasized the value of patience in Dart’s growth, stating, “For the longevity of the franchise or for the longevity of his career, development is the best way to go.”

Dart recognizes the advantages of learning from the sidelines, stating, “I’m able to stand back and see the whole defense. A lot of times, as a quarterback, you’re only able to see so many things going on.” This perspective allows him to analyze defensive adjustments and gain insights into game management that he might not experience as a starter.

Historically, many successful quarterbacks, including Mahomes, Tom Brady, and Aaron Rodgers, did not start immediately in their rookie seasons. With the Giants facing challenges, including an offensive line that has allowed pressure at a rate of 35% over the first two games, the team prefers to wait for left tackle Andrew Thomas to return from injury before considering Dart for a starting position.

Daboll, along with general manager Joe Schoen, are navigating the balance between winning games now and fostering long-term growth for Dart. As pressure mounts, the decision-making process will be crucial to both the team’s immediate success and Dart’s future as a potential franchise quarterback.

For now, Dart remains dedicated to his development, acknowledging the complexities of being a rookie in the NFL. “As a competitor, I don’t have a blast watching from the sideline,” he admitted. Yet, he understands the importance of preparation and patience in what could ultimately be a defining chapter of his career.