After a rough offensive performance in week one for the New York Giants, it's time to look at when rookie first-round pick Jaxson Dart could be named the starting quarterback.

The quarterback play for the New York Giants has been inconsistence since the retirement of legendary quarterback Eli Manning. In 2019, the franchise selected former Duke standout Daniel Jones with the sixth pick. Unfortunately for the struggling organization, Jones was unable to solidify his role with the Giants despite leading his team to a playoff appearance in 2023.

With their former first-round pick being cut in the middle of the 2024 season, general manager Joe Schoen decided to trade back into the first round during the 2025 NFL Draft to select former Ole Miss Rebels quarterback Jaxson Dart.

Throughout his four seasons at the colligate level, Dart threw for nearly 12,000 yards and 81 touchdowns, while also adding a 1,543 rushing yards to his resume. At 6-foot-2, 223 lbs., the young gunslinger possessed similar traits to Josh Allen, who head coach Brian Daboll during his time as the Buffalo Bills' offensive coordinator. While he may not be elite like Allen, the Giants must consider handing over the reigns to Dart at some point this season. 

Dart's Case For Starting Year One

One of the key reasons why Dart could see some playing time this year is because of Daboll's job security.

Heading into this season, there were many speculations that New York's head coach could be fired after another disappointing season in 2024. But Daboll managed to retain his coaching role for the Giants this season, which means he will be closely monitored by the organization throughout the year. Since Daboll could be on the chopping block, there is no doubt that he will start the best quarterback that gives his team to win every week.

In his first start for the Giants, veteran quarterback Russell Wilson struggled to get the offense in rhythm, resulting in a 21-6 loss to the Washington Commanders. Wilson was underwhelming in his debut, throwing for 168 passing yards while completing just 17 of his 37 attempts.

If the offensive woes continue throughout the next couple of games for the Giants, Daboll may be forced into playing his rookie quarterback in order to get the offense on track. Dart ability to play within structure while also being a threat in the run game makes him a better fit for Daboll's offense, despite his lack of experience at the professional level.

When Will Dart Start?

Looking ahead at the Giants' 2025 schedule, the franchise will encounter a rough three-game stretch following week one that includes the Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers. Keeping Dart on the bench for the next three games will allow for Wilson to potentially show growth in three weeks, while ensuring Dart does not make his debut against a tough opponent.

This puts first chance to start in week five when the Giants travel to New Orleans to take on the Saints. With the current state of the Saints' defense, this becomes a prime opportunity to roll out Dart for his first career start. However, New York will have a Thursday night battle against fellow NFC East division member, the Dallas Cowboys.

If Daboll does not want to put the pressure of a quick turnaround on Dart, the next best opportunity would be in week nine when the Giants host the San Francisco 49ers. Dart would avoid playing the Eagles in 2025 and gives the highly-regarded quarterback an easier runway to kick off his NFL career.