Jaxson Dart took every hit thrown his way in his rookie season. Five concussion evaluations, two missed games, and a wave of public criticism later, the New York Giants quarterback still isn't backing down. But he is learning when to pick his fights. 

Thursday, Dart directly addressed the ongoing conversation around his durability. 

"My competitiveness isn't going to change at all. I think, just like I said, it just goes into situations. Just what times it's worth it and what times it's not. And just making those mature decisions," Dart told reporters Thursday, per the Giants' official team transcript.

Dart continued to explain how the message has been reinforced by the coaching staff on a daily basis. 

"It's important for the quarterback to make sure how he's feeling one play that he's going to feel that same way the next play. And at the same time, just having the experience last year of sitting out two games, I hadn't done that in my career. So, I just hated that time of not being out there with my teammates." 

Dart’s approach resulted in 487 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns in 2025, plus 2,272 passing yards and 15 touchdown passes, solid numbers for a rookie on a 4-13 team.

The Giants are backing that development with investment. General Manager Joe Schoen selected Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa with the 10th overall pick in the 2026 draft.

The new head coach, John Harbaugh, brings direct experience managing dual-threat quarterbacks after years working with Lamar Jackson in Baltimore.

Dart Talks About Being In Shape For The Upcoming Season

Jaxson Dart showed up to OTAs leaner, more mobile, and with something to prove. After a rookie year that ended with two games missed due to a concussion, the New York Giants QB has spent the offseason making sure his body is ready for whatever 2026 throws at him.

"I'm probably the most mobile I've been in my career right now," Dart told reporters Thursday. "Just my hips and the disassociation from my upper to lower body, being able to make throws. I think my body is in the best shape it's been."

However, Dart is not changing who he is. The competitiveness stays. What changes is the decision-making around it. New passing game coordinator Brian Callahan has already been breaking down film with him, working through situational moments where the risk simply is not worth taking.

Do you think Dart can stay healthy through a full 2026 season? Tell us in the comments. 

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Written by

Abhay Bharti

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi