The New York Giants have expressed their concerns regarding rookie quarterback Anthony Dart‘s aggressive running style, especially after he suffered a concussion in last week’s game against the Chicago Bears. Dart will miss this Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers. In the meantime, the coaching staff is encouraging him to reassess his style of running for when he returns to action.
Inside of three seasons, Dart had established himself as one of the NFL’s most electrifying and running quarterbacks. Perhaps most importantly, he has rushed for an impressive 317 yards and seven touchdowns on just 56 carries this season for an average of 5.6 yards per carry. Most impressively of all, he is the first rookie quarterback in NFL history to rush for a touchdown in five straight games. Additionally, he scored seven rushing touchdowns, which ranks third most for a rookie quarterback since 1950. Only Cam Newton in 2011 and Josh Allen in 2018 have exceeded that remarkable achievement.
These are pretty impressive accomplishments. While he can take off after the catch and gain additional yardage, that’s an unsustainable tactic that concerns coaches and analysts alike. The yardage gained… Recent debates focused on the latter—yards gained. When it comes to games lost to injury, the effects on team performance are much more pronounced. Coaching staff have stressed that, to be an effective force on the field, Dart needs to put his health first.
It’s a style particularly evident during each of Dart’s nine appearances this season, serving as one of seven starts. His completion percentage is currently 62.7 with 1,417 passing yards, 10 touchdowns and 3 picks. The Giants’ training staff that he needs to be open to changing his style of running to prevent these injuries from recurring.
Last week, joining teammates in stretching drills, Dart’s actions made it clear that he plans to return to play. He is, though, still working to get through concussion protocol in time for next Sunday’s matchup against the Detroit Lions. The franchise remains hopeful that he will be back on the field soon. They are mindful of the need for him to adjust his approach.
Dart’s potential impact is a matter of health. It all comes down to how healthy Dart can be this season. The coaching staff has reiterated that he cannot help the Giants if he is sidelined due to injuries related to his aggressive playing style. Dart’s still in the process of assessing his play and approach to the game on this road back from injury. He knows that he faces the cataclysm of being an impactful player and a long career in the league simultaneously both from himself and the organization’s pressures.
Leave a Reply