Jaxson Dart named Giants starter: What it means for New York
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart. Image Credit: Mark Smith/Imagn Images
The New York Giants have made a bold decision: rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart will start in Week 4 against the undefeated Los Angeles Chargers. According to ESPN and Fox News, head coach Brian Daboll is benching Russell Wilson after three rocky games, opening the door for Dart, the team’s first-round pick out of Ole Miss.
Fans at MetLife Stadium made their frustration clear in Sunday night’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, where boos rained down on Wilson after his second interception. With the Giants sitting at 0–3, the move signals a shift in direction and possibly the start of a new chapter.
Russell Wilson’s Struggles Prompt the Change
Wilson entered the season as New York’s veteran leader, but his numbers have been among the NFL’s worst. He ranks 30th in Total QBR, has a 59% completion percentage, and has been hit 40 times—the most in the league. Against the Chiefs, he threw for just 160 yards with two interceptions, and his poor red-zone execution sealed the loss.
While Daboll initially said the team was “evaluating everything,” the decision to hand the reins to Dart became inevitable as Wilson’s struggles mounted.
Why Jaxson Dart Is Getting the Opportunity
The Giants traded back into the first round to draft Dart, who quickly impressed coaches during the offseason. Starting with the third-team offense in the spring, he surpassed veteran Jameis Winston by summer camp and became Wilson’s primary backup.
Dart’s mobility, zone-read ability, and willingness to extend plays offer the Giants an offensive look they simply haven’t had under Wilson. His brief appearances this season have energized the fan base, and Sunday will mark his first extended chance to prove he can command an NFL offense.
READ ALSO
Should the Giants bench Russell Wilson for Jaxson Dart? Fans make their voices heard
What’s next for Russell Wilson after struggling Giants debut?
The Week 4 Test Against the Chargers
Dart’s debut comes against one of the toughest defenses in the NFL. The Chargers are undefeated and have held opponents to under 300 total yards per game. For Dart, the challenge will be balancing his playmaking instincts with discipline against a defense that thrives on creating turnovers.
If successful, Dart could inject momentum into a Giants team desperate for identity and offensive production.
What This Means for the Giants’ Future
Starting Dart signals more than just a quarterback change, it represents the organization’s willingness to pivot quickly. The Giants invested heavily in him as a first-round pick, and his early development could shape the trajectory of the franchise.
For Wilson, the benching raises questions about his long-term role. With Jameis Winston also on the roster, the Giants now have multiple directions to consider at quarterback.
FAQ: Jaxson Dart and the Giants’ Quarterback Change
Who is Jaxson Dart?
Jaxson Dart is a rookie quarterback drafted by the New York Giants in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Ole Miss.
Why is Jaxson Dart starting for the Giants?
Head coach Brian Daboll benched Russell Wilson after three poor starts, giving Dart the opportunity to energize the offense and provide a new spark.
What happened to Russell Wilson?
Wilson struggled through the first three games, ranking 30th in QBR, throwing multiple interceptions, and failing in key red-zone opportunities.
When will Jaxson Dart make his first start?
Dart will start in Week 4 against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium.
Is Jaxson Dart mobile?
Yes. Dart’s mobility and zone-read ability are part of why the Giants believe he can change the offense’s dynamic.
Could Russell Wilson regain the starting job?
It’s possible if Dart struggles, but the Giants invested heavily in Dart, suggesting he is the long-term plan.
How did fans react to the change?
Giants fans cheered Dart when he entered briefly against the Chiefs and booed Wilson after interceptions, showing strong support for the rookie.
What challenges will Jaxson Dart face in his debut?
He will face an undefeated Chargers team with one of the league’s most efficient defenses, making it a tough first test.