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After a dismal 2024 campaign, the New York Giants wasted no time in revamping their quarterback room.
Brian Daboll, determined to revive the team's fortunes, brought in Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, then traded away valuable picks to move up and select Jaxson Dart in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The aggressive rebuild sent a clear message: this team isn't waiting around.
Dart, the former Ole Miss star, arrives with impressive college credentials, having led the FBS in deep ing yards and touchdowns in 2024. Yet, despite the buzz, his path to the starting job appears anything but clear.
During the team's recent OTA sessions, all eyes were on how Daboll would distribute practice reps-and which quarterback would rise to the top of the depth chart.
Russell Wilson asserts early dominance in Giants' QB battle
The answer, at least for now, is Russell Wilson. Though Daboll was diplomatic when speaking to ESPN's Jordan Raanan-"They'll all get reps. We have a detailed plan for how we're going to handle the quarterbacks"-practice sessions painted a different picture. Wilson was consistently getting the lion's share of reps and looked sharp running the offense. His chemistry with receivers was evident, especially during 7-on-7 drills where he connected for a touchdown with Zach Pascal.
The former Super Bowl champion and Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year is clearly bringing a veteran presence to the huddle, and Daboll seems inclined to lean on that experience as the season approaches.
However, the situation isn't without risks. The Giants' offensive line, which allowed Daniel Jones to be sacked 29 times in just 10 games last year, remains a glaring concern. That weakness is one reason the coaching staff initially envisioned Dart sitting and learning rather than being thrown into the fire.
Adding to the pressure is the Giants' brutal schedule. In the first eight weeks, they'll face six playoff teams from 2024, including back-to-back matchups with the Philadelphia Eagles. The team's late bye, not arriving until after Week 13, only compounds the physical and mental toll.
And while Wilson made a solid first impression, NFL Network's Judy Battista raised a cautionary note. She reminded fans that Wilson also started strong with the Pittsburgh Steelers last season-only to falter when it mattered most. Pittsburgh lost its last four games before bowing out in the Wild Card round against the Baltimore Ravens.
Still, the Giants are doing everything they can to their new QB. Wilson recently spoke glowingly of rookie wideout Malik Nabers during an appearance on Carmelo Anthony's "7 PM in Brooklyn" podcast, calling him a relentless competitor. Nabers wasn't present at the first OTA week, but his return will only enhance the offensive setup.
For now, the writing on the wall is clear: Dart's development will have to wait. Wilson is in control, and unless he falters, it's his job to lose. Daboll may have a plan for the future, but when it comes to 2025, experience seems to be winning out over potential.