The New York Giants made a bold and controversial move by trading back into the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft to select Jaxson Dart with the 25th overall pick. This decision sparked mixed reactions, especially considering Dart’s polarizing college career at Ole Miss. While opinions vary across the board regarding this year’s quarterback class, Dart stood out as particularly divisive.
Despite the debate, Dart appears to be an ideal fit for the Giants. Head coach Brian Daboll, known for nurturing Josh Allen into stardom in Buffalo, sees potential in Dart—though it’s important to temper expectations. While most draft boards graded Dart as a second-round talent, his physical traits—size, arm strength, and athleticism—suggest a high ceiling. If he can develop consistency, minimize errors, and master offensive coordinator Mike Kafka’s system, Dart has a real shot at becoming New York’s quarterback of the future.
For now, however, Dart won’t be thrust into the spotlight. He’ll start training camp as the third-string quarterback behind veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston. Daboll has already made it clear that Wilson is the starter for Week 1, leaving Dart to learn and develop from the sidelines. Even fourth-stringer Tommy Devito, with his familiarity with the playbook, offers guidance as Dart adjusts to the NFL.
The Giants’ cautious approach with Dart is a refreshing change in today’s fast-paced NFL, where rookie quarterbacks are often rushed into starting roles. Notably, it’s a luxury Daniel Jones was never afforded. Unlike Dart, Jones was thrown into the fire early, starting his rookie season under less-than-ideal conditions—an unstable offensive line, underwhelming receiving corps, and a shaky defense. Despite being the sixth overall pick, Jones never quite lived up to expectations, and his best season arguably came as a rookie.
Dart, in contrast, will have the benefit of time, mentorship, and support. Learning under the tutelage of a Super Bowl champion in Wilson and a seasoned starter in Winston, the young quarterback will be exposed to a wealth of knowledge. Even Devito’s insights can prove valuable from a schematic perspective. On top of that, the Giants have improved significantly on defense, with rookies like Abdul Carter expected to make an immediate impact and a revitalized pass rush that adds stability to the team. Offensively, Dart will also have a rising star in wide receiver Malik Nabers—an elite talent who can grow alongside him.
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The Giants’ front office has been transparent about their developmental strategy. General Manager Joe Schoen explained that Dart will receive meaningful reps with the third team and will occasionally be thrown into unexpected situations to test his adaptability. Rather than overexposing him too soon, the plan is to gradually ease him into the system with purpose and patience.
Additionally, Dart will benefit from a robust support system led by Daboll and Kafka, both known for their quarterback development expertise. Quarterbacks coach Shea Tierney also contributes to a collaborative environment where ideas and experiences are freely shared among the group, including Dart, Wilson, Winston, and Devito. This focus on growth and cohesion is something Jones never had during his tenure.
Ultimately, it seems the Giants have learned from the missteps of the past. By setting Dart up with a clear developmental path and a well-rounded support team, they are creating the kind of environment that could unlock his full potential. For Dart, it’s a golden opportunity. For Jones, it’s a sobering reminder of what might have been.
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