New York Giants rookie quarterback and first-round draft pick Jaxson Dart avoided disaster during a preseason outing. Now, he’s been given the green light to resume preparations for the 2023 campaign. Dart put on a show in his first career start against the New England Patriots. He went 15 for 17 with three touchdown passes on his first three possessions. His outstanding preseason has reassured the Giants’ coaching staff and fans that they made the right decision in drafting him.
Dart had a solid preseason, accumulating 372 total passing yards in limited action. He threw three touchdown passes and no picks over three games. He proved to be a versatile player — rushing six times for 52 yards and a score. His promising performance was undercut by a frightening play in Thursday night’s matchup with the Patriots.
During the match, Dart attempted a run over two defenders after a 23-yard gain on fourth down late in the first quarter. Attempting to throw a pass while being tackled, he lost possession of the ball and his helmet collided with the turf, triggering massive concern for his well-being. Dart went with a friend immediately to the blue medical tent for a quick health check. He climbed out just minutes later, proving he had dodged life-threatening harm. His ability to return to the field bolstered the Giants’ opening drive, where he led the team to a touchdown.
In the wake of that incident, Dart wrote about his motivation to prevailing in difficult times. “I feel like whenever my number is called, I’m going to go out there and play my game,” he stated. He took responsibility for trying to find a bigger play on the run. As Jackson said after the game, “I just thought I could’ve made a larger play on it. I thought I could split him. I just know that if I make one guy miss, I’m out of there.
Head coach Brian Daboll recognized Dart’s perseverance following the game while sending a message that protecting players is paramount at all levels. “Got the wind knocked out of him. He’s good. Yeah, I would like him to slide on that,” Daboll remarked, highlighting both concern for Dart’s well-being and recognition of his competitive nature.
As cut day approaches on Tuesday, Dart’s future with the Giants is still up in the air. His per-game statistics are eye-popping. That, and his ability to really lead this young team moving forward will be key in determining if he sticks on the final roster. With his performances thus far, Dart has proven he possesses the talent and drive to compete at a high level.
The fans, ecstatic in their applause, erupted with cheers for the young hero as he left his impression on the historic game. This moment increased his bond with the hometown fans. Fellow teammate Tommy DeVito acknowledged the significance of that support, stating, “Means a lot. Like you said, the ovation, if I was in the stands, I would be cheering for anybody who was the hometown kid, too. It was appreciated.”
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