Should the Giants bench Russell Wilson for Jaxson Dart? Fans make their voices heard
New York Giants’ QB, Jaxson Dart. Image Credit: NFL.com
The New York Giants are off to an 0-3 start in the 2025 NFL season, and the frustration in East Rutherford is boiling over. During Sunday night’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, boos rained down on quarterback Russell Wilson as fans chanted, “We want Dart!”, a clear call for rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart to step in.
The scene has sparked a heated debate: should the Giants stick with the veteran Wilson, or hand the reins to their promising rookie?
Why Did Fans Chant for Jaxson Dart?
Wilson struggled mightily in the 22-9 loss, completing just 18 of 32 passes for 160 yards with two interceptions. Coming off a 450-yard performance the week prior, expectations were high, but his deep passing woes against Kansas City reignited concerns.
When Dart briefly entered the game for a three-snap red-zone package, the crowd erupted in cheers. As Wilson returned to the field, boos quickly followed, showing just how divided the fan base has become.
Brian Daboll’s Response: Change Coming?
Head coach Brian Daboll didn’t hide his frustration after the game.
“I’d be booing too… nothing was good enough. Coaching, playing. Everybody.”
Daboll refused to commit to Wilson as the starter for Week 4 against the Los Angeles Chargers, leaving the door open for a possible quarterback switch. Historically, when a coach avoids backing his starter immediately, it signals growing uncertainty.
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What Does This Mean for Jaxson Dart?
Drafted as Wilson’s backup, Dart was never expected to be thrown into action this early. But the Giants’ winless start has accelerated the timeline. Fans view him as the spark the team desperately needs, even though he has yet to take a meaningful NFL snap outside situational packages.
Dart himself has been careful not to add fuel to the fire. After the game, he admitted the situation is “all kind of new” to him and explained how he’s handling it.
“I’m just trying to be a really good teammate,” Dart said. “Any time Russ comes off the field, I make it a point to listen, to hear what he’s seeing, what his perspective is. That way, I can learn and be prepared if my number’s ever called. The coaches give him points, and I try to soak them in too. Then I do my best to encourage the guys around me.”
He also acknowledged the pressure of watching the offense struggle, saying:
“It’s hard when we’re not playing up to standard. I want to help however I can, but I also respect Russ and everything he’s accomplished. For me, it’s about being ready, staying patient, and doing my job when I get the chance.”
Despite the chants, Dart made it clear he’s focused on learning, staying prepared, and earning his opportunity rather than demanding it. Still, the calls for his promotion grow louder with each Giants loss.
The Bigger Picture: Giants at a Crossroads
The Giants are stuck between honoring Wilson’s veteran leadership and embracing Dart’s potential. With the season slipping away, Daboll faces mounting pressure to act. If the losing streak continues, the chants for Dart may become impossible to ignore.
FAQ
Q1. Why are Giants fans chanting for Jaxson Dart?
Fans chanted “We want Dart!” after Russell Wilson threw his second interception against the Chiefs. Many believe rookie Jaxson Dart could provide a spark to the Giants’ struggling offense.
Q2. Did Jaxson Dart play in Week 3?
Yes, Dart appeared for three snaps in a red-zone package, but he has not yet been given a full drive as starting quarterback.
Q3. Will Jaxson Dart start in Week 4 against the Chargers?
Head coach Brian Daboll has not committed to Russell Wilson as the starter, leaving speculation that Dart could see more playing time. A decision is expected later in the week.
Q4. How has Russell Wilson performed with the Giants?
Wilson is 0-3 as the Giants’ starter in 2025. In Week 3, he threw for 160 yards with two interceptions, a major drop-off from his 450-yard performance the week before.
Q5. What has Jaxson Dart said about the situation?
Dart has emphasized being a supportive teammate, saying he listens to Wilson’s perspective and coaching points. He has avoided fueling controversy and remains focused on development.
Q6. Why hasn’t Dart been named starter yet?
The Giants drafted Dart as a developmental quarterback. While fans are eager to see him, the coaching staff may feel he needs more time to adjust before being thrown into a starting role.
Q7. Could Russell Wilson be benched soon?
Yes. Daboll’s refusal to endorse Wilson after Week 3 suggests a quarterback change is possible if the Giants continue losing.
Q8. How do Giants players feel about the QB controversy?
Most players downplayed the chants, with linebacker Brian Burns calling it “an emotional reaction” and defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II stressing that the team needs to make key plays regardless of who is under center.
Q9. What’s at stake for the Giants moving forward?
The Giants are already 0-3, and with tough games ahead, a decision on whether to play Dart could shape the team’s season and Daboll’s future as head coach.
Q10. Is Jaxson Dart ready to be a starting NFL quarterback?
It’s uncertain. Dart has talent and fan support, but he’s unproven at the NFL level. The Giants must weigh the risk of rushing him versus the reward of energizing a frustrated fan base.