Kafka plans tailored approach for Jaxson Dart debut, leveraging Mahomes-era experience

New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka said he intends to treat Jaxson Dart's NFL debut as a 'fun challenge' but with high stakes, calling the right plays at the right moments for a quarterback making his first NFL start. Kafka, who previously helped Andy Reid develop the young Patrick Mahomes during his time in Kansas City, faces a dual task as Dart's starter approaches: guide the rookie through the speed of the league and continue the team’s longer-term development plan under head coach Brian Daboll.

Kafka said the game plan would be tuned to Dart’s strengths, with a focus on clean, quick reads, an efficient rhythm, and play-calling that minimizes high-risk situations. He indicated that the approach would balance protective measures — such as quick drops and short-to-intermediate routes — with enough variety to test Dart’s ability to adjust to NFL defenses. The plan also will lean on the running game to establish balance and help Dart settle into the speed of professional football.

Beyond the play-calling specifics, Kafka’s strategy also signals a deeper collaboration with Daboll and the Giants' development staff as Dart learns in real time. The team will be evaluating his progress over a series of games, with an eye toward his long-term readiness rather than a single performance. The dynamic recalls Kafka’s rare blend of play-calling pragmatism and quarterback development experience as a path to cultivate a young passer without sacrificing the club’s competitiveness this season.

Dart's college background and the transitions to the NFL will be tested by his first start. He has shown potential and will be asked to handle pro-style reads and rapid adjustments, while the Giants' staff emphasizes steady reps and methodical progression. The approach seeks to balance immediate usefulness with long-term growth, ensuring Dart gains comfort with the playbook and the speed of NFL defenses.

Kafka’s comments underscore a broader objective: to marry the immediacy of a game in front of him with the longer-term arc of Daboll’s quarterback-development program. If the plan pays off, Dart could be positioned to build confidence quickly, while the Giants keep options open for how to deploy him across varying matchups this season.