Rookie QB Jaxson Dart Shines in Giants' Preseason Finale

In the final preseason game for the New York Giants on August 17, 2025, first-round rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart continued to impress with his strong performance. Dart, who has been one of the standout players throughout the preseason, led a quick touchdown drive to start the game and made several other accurate throws, despite his receivers dropping multiple passes.

Giants coach Brian Daboll has repeatedly stated that Russell Wilson is the team's starting quarterback, and he seems committed to that plan for the season opener. However, Dart's stellar play in the preseason has led to speculation that he could get a chance to start sooner rather than later if Wilson struggles. Dart's performance has drawn comparisons to the 2012 Seahawks, when Wilson won the starting job as a rookie with his impressive preseason play.

In the final preseason game, Dart got the start as Wilson rested, and he made plays right away. He scrambled on his first pass and hit Gunner Olszewski for a 50-yard gain, and then connected with a tight end for a 7-yard touchdown. Dart's final numbers were not as impressive due to several dropped passes, but he consistently delivered accurate throws throughout the game.

Dart's only blemish came late in the first quarter when he scrambled on a fourth-down play, was hit hard, and fumbled. He was briefly checked for a concussion but returned to the sideline. The Giants kept possession due to a Patriots penalty, and Jameis Winston came in to throw a touchdown pass on his first play.

Despite the Giants' commitment to Wilson as the starter, Dart's impressive preseason has made it clear that he could be ready to take over the reins of the offense sooner rather than later. Giants fans are unlikely to be patient if Wilson struggles, as they have seen Dart's ability to make plays and lead the offense.