With the New York Giants recently beginning their offseason practices, Russell Wilson clearly the team’s starting quarterback. Wilson was signed away from the Winnipeg Jets as a free agent this offseason. He draws on deep experience from his 13 NFL seasons as a starting quarterback. He can claim a résumé that includes 10 Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl championship. That experience is what makes him a key addition to the Giants’ roster.
It took a few practice runs to settle in, as Wilson did not look comfortable in the opening practices. He tossed three straight incompletions then rushed for just 1 yard. As the day went on, it looked like Wilson was getting more and more comfortable with his new offensive gameplan. He flashed that talent with a breathtaking pass to wide receiver Darius Slayton. The throw sailed over the head of a defender and dove straight into the back left corner of the end zone on a rope.
The Giants are looking to improve their offensive output after finishing last season ranked 31st in the league, averaging just 16.1 points per game. To find touches for all those mouths, the team brought in Jameis Winston to upgrade backup QB role and deep ball frequency. He assumed the second spot for practice quarterback reps. Dare to dream that instant class and leadership have arrived with Winston’s presence, who’s joined such a model unit.
Meanwhile, Jaxson Dart, the Giants’ recent first-round draft pick, has started to show promise as the franchise’s quarterback of the future. Though he was mostly with the third-team offense, Dart was in the mix for a few first-team practice sessions as well.
Only one Tommy DeVito even appears to be the only returning QB from last season, including four third-team reps on the day during practice. His comfort level with the team’s system helps add a bit of continuity as new blood continues to be injected into the offense.
New Head Coach Brian Daboll made it clear from the outset that every QB on the roster would get their full share of reps in the spring practices. His preference for patience tells you he’s serious about raising that talent and keeping competition fierce among the signal-callers.
“Russ has been there, done that. Been in the league a long time. Competed at a high level — 10 Pro Bowls, a Super Bowl, been to two. Lot of experience,” – Greg Van Roten
“He’s just been a really good voice to have in the offensive room as far as the little things. … No stone goes unturned with him.” – Greg Van Roten
In today’s NFL practices, Coach Daboll was clear that he won’t be budging from his disciplined quarterback pecking order. He spoke very confidently about Wilson’s leadership and adaptability to the evolving offensive system.
“We have a detailed plan of how we’re going to handle the quarterbacks.” – Coach Brian Daboll
Trouble is not far away for Wilson as his transition into his new role continues. When addressing the small rehab concerns, Daboll commented on Wilson, saying,
“Nothing serious, but we’re being smart with him in terms of the rehab part of it. So that’s where we’re at.” – Coach Brian Daboll
The Giants are counting on Wilson to be their quarterback of the future. Together, they hope to breathe new life into their stagnant offense in this dog-eat-dog league. The coming months will be crucial in determining how well Wilson integrates into his new role and how effectively he can guide his team back to prominence in the league.
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