Giants Name Russell Wilson Starter but May Debut Rookie Jaxson Dart Against Commanders
New York has prepared a package of plays for Dart despite designating Wilson as the Week 1 starter, NFL Network reports
The New York Giants have named Russell Wilson their starting quarterback for Sunday's season opener against the Washington Commanders, but the team has prepared a package of plays that could lead to a regular-season debut for rookie Jaxson Dart, according to a report from NFL Network.
The plan does not guarantee Dart will play; whether the 22-year-old sees the field will depend on Wilson's performance, game flow and situational strategy, the report said. The move underscores the confidence head coach Brian Daboll has in Dart after the rookie's strong preseason showing.
Dart compiled 372 passing yards and three touchdowns in the preseason, playing turnover-free football in outings against the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets and New England Patriots. He completed 14 of 16 passes in a standout performance against the Jets and secured the No. 2 quarterback job ahead of veteran Jameis Winston.
"Being a rookie quarterback is not easy — being a quarterback is not easy — so he knows he's got a lot of things to work on, but he's made progress every day and I'm glad we drafted him," Daboll said in August. "I'm glad he's our guy."
The Giants traded back into the first round to select Dart with the 25th overall pick in this year's draft. The organization overhauled its quarterback room this offseason, signing Wilson and Winston to short-term deals to pair veteran experience with rookie upside.
Wilson, 36, spent last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, missing the first six games through injury before returning to average just over 225 passing yards per game. He threw 16 touchdowns against five interceptions after his return and helped the Steelers reach the playoffs, where they lost in the wild-card round to the Baltimore Ravens.
New York's decision to keep a package ready for Dart while starting Wilson reflects a growing NFL trend of hybrid quarterback plans that use veteran starters with situational snaps for younger players. The Giants' approach allows them to prioritize stability under center while retaining the option to exploit specific matchups or situations with a mobile, inexperienced passer.
If Dart enters Sunday's game, it would mark his first regular-season action after a preseason that earned him praise from coaches and staff. Any decision to play him will be framed by in-game circumstances and the coaching staff's assessment of the Commanders' defensive looks.
The Giants open the regular season at home Sunday, with Wilson listed as the starter on the depth chart and Dart available as the primary backup. The team has declined to provide further detail on the specific plays or packages earmarked for Dart if he enters the contest.