Veteran Benched, Rookie Rising: Jaxson Dart’s Time to Shine
The New York Giants entered this season with high expectations after bringing in Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson to take over at quarterback. Known for his trademark moon balls and steady leadership, Wilson was expected to breathe new life into the franchise. But after a disappointing 0-3 start, patience within the organization has begun to wear thin.
Wilson briefly showed flashes of his old self in a Week 3 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, throwing for 450 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Unfortunately, that pick came in overtime, sealing a 40–37 loss. While Wilson displayed confidence and consistency, the Giants still walked away winless.
Head coach Brian Daboll announced that the decision to bench Wilson was “100 percent his,” though he declined to go into details regarding the quarterback change. Rookie Jaxson Dart, who impressed during the preseason, will take over as the starter. In limited action this summer, Dart completed 32 of 47 passes for 372 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He also added 52 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground, finishing with an impressive passer rating of 113.1.
Despite losing his starting role, Wilson has handled the situation with class. “I will do anything to help this team win and help mentor Jaxson any way possible,” Wilson said. “I’m not done. I have so much left in the tank and so much confidence in myself.” He also made it clear he has no intention of requesting a trade or release.
For the Giants, this is a bold move, one that signals not a surrender of the season, but a desire to inject new energy into the locker room. Daboll emphasized his belief in Dart, calling him “his guy.” The rookie’s first start comes against the undefeated Los Angeles Chargers, a team boasting one of the league’s best defenses. It will be a massive early test for the young quarterback.
As for Wilson, the narrative surrounding his career is shifting. Some critics argue that his post-Seattle struggles may hurt his Hall of Fame chances. Former teammate Richard Sherman suggested Wilson’s success was heavily carried by the Legion of Boom defense. NFL legend Tony Gonzalez has questioned how his career will be remembered since leaving the Seahawks.
Still, Wilson’s resume remains impressive: a Super Bowl champion, a 10-time Pro Bowl selection, and years of elite-level play. The question now is whether he can recapture his vintage form or if he will transition into a veteran mentor role, backing up the next generation of quarterbacks.
With Dart locked in as the starter against the Chargers, all eyes will be on the Giants’ new direction. For Wilson, this marks yet another twist in his NFL journey. Whether it proves to be a detour or the beginning of his final chapter remains to be seen.
