He’s already become a frequent visitor to the blue tent for concussion-related checks during his first season in the NFL, but Jaxson Dart blasted the process and how he’s being treated by referees and spotters after the New York Giants‘ rookie quarterback was called off the field for two plays against the Washington Commanders in Week 15.
Dart was asked to visit the tent at a crucial moment of what turned out to be a 29-21 win for the Commanders. The Giants were at the one-yard line, but Dart was forced off after a collision with Washington defensive tackles Javon Kinlaw and Eddie Goldman.
It was a collision Dart revealed he didn’t view as a big hit when speaking to reporters post-game. Instead, the first-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft was “definitely surprised” about being sent for evaluation, per ESPN’s Jordan Raanan.
Dart put it candidly when he said, “(I) Definitely feel there is a sensitivity for some reason.”
Frustration was understandable after the Giants lost two yards on a run, before backup QB Jameis Winston threw incomplete, without Dart in the lineup. Another incompletion followed and the Giants turned the ball over on downs.
Dart has been defiant about running and taking big hits , but it appears officials and medical personnel are going to be more hands on about protecting the 25-year-old after four stints in concussion protocol .
Jaxson Dart Frustrated With Concussion Rules
An already lengthy history of concussion fears means Dart should expect some precaution around his health. Yet, he still “‘absolutely’ thinks he’s treated different than other players and doesn’t understand the increased sensitivity toward him,” according to Dan Duggan of The Athletic .
What’s ironic here is this wasn’t one of the designed runs that had subjected Dart to punishment. Instead, interim head coach Mike Kafka revealed the play was a pass, but “Dart didn’t like the look so he just tried to get back to the line,” per Duggan.
Dart did run nine times against the Giants’ NFC East rivals, but Kafka was noticeably light on calling designed runs for his battle-weary prized asset. This is the dilemma facing Dart and whoever replaces Kafka.
Giants Can’t Change Star Quarterback
Eliminating opportunities for Dart to run would change the player he is and risk limiting his effectiveness. The former Ole Miss stud is never going to stay static in the pocket, but he still needs to be smarter and more selective about unleashing his mobility.
It’s a difficult balancing act, but the Giants have to get it right if they’re going to count on Dart to inspire a rebuild beyond what’s been yet another miserable season. Dart boasts enough potential to be optimistic about the future, potential showcased by his 16-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson on 4th-and-5.
This was the second of Dart’s scoring strikes as part of a 246-yard output through the air. He’s a natural playmaker the Giants can build around, particularly with skill players like Robinson, fellow wideout Malik Nabers once he’s healthy, and versatile running back Tyrone Tracy Jr.
It’s an exciting nucleus, but the Giants must be able to count on their star signal-caller to stay on the field in clutch moments. That won’t happen unless Dart changes the narrative about the risks and hits he’s prepared to take as a runner.
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