Tag: Russell Wilson Giants

  • Can Jaxson Dart Dethrone Russell Wilson as Giants QB Starter?

    Can Jaxson Dart Dethrone Russell Wilson as Giants QB Starter?

    Russell Wilson, the former Seahawks star, is entering his 14th NFL season and is the front runner to start at quarterback for the New York Giants in 2025. Though he’s past his prime years, Wilson’s experience and early work in OTAs has him as the top guy to lead the Giants’ offense this season.

    He’s had his ups and downs — a trade to the Broncos, a stint with the Steelers, a one year deal with the Giants — but he’s consistently shown he can still play at a high level.

    Wilson Leads Early in the QB Race

    According to Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic, during the Giants’ first OTAs, Wilson got the majority of the first team reps, so the coaching staff sees him as the early favorite to start Week 1.

    His age and recent play has raised questions, but his leadership and veteran presence is a big asset for a team rebuilding.

    Winston Still in the Mix, But Not the Favorite

    Jameis Winston, who had some moments during his time with the Browns last year, is still in the mix but struggles with consistency, so he won’t be the full time starter.

    Winston did get some first team reps in OTAs, but Wilson’s experience and steadiness has him ahead.

    https://twitter.com/_MLFootball/status/1922029266616693212

    Jaxson Dart: The Rising Star

    The wild card is rookie Jaxson Dart, the Giants’ first round pick at 25 in the 2025 NFL Draft. Dart rose up the draft boards late and is considered the third best quarterback prospect behind Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders.

    His game is raw, but Dart’s talent and ability to make an impact right away can’t be ignored. He brings a fresh perspective and energy to the Giants’ offense and if he keeps improving he’ll challenge Wilson for the job.

    What it means for the Giants and Brian Daboll

    This quarterback competition has big implications for the players but also for Giants head coach Brian Daboll whose job is tied to the team’s success.

    A strong rookie season from Dart could give Daboll a way to keep his job, a good season from Wilson would stabilize the situation for the coach.

    Who will win the job?

    For now the Giants are going with Wilson’s experience and leadership but the pressure is on both the quarterback and the head coach.

    As training camp approaches all eyes will be on Wilson and Dart to see who can win the job and help the Giants compete in what should be a tough season.

  • Why the Giants Passing Game Faces Major Challenges Early in 2025

    Why the Giants Passing Game Faces Major Challenges Early in 2025

    The New York Giants are entering 2025 with hope, looking to recapture the magic of 2022 when they got off to a fast start and made the playoffs. But this year’s schedule is tough for their passing offense and may make it hard to duplicate that early season success.

    Tough Schedule Ahead

    According to Warren Sharp of Sharp Football, the Giants face 5 top-7 pass defenses from 2024 in the first 5 games: Denver, Philadelphia, LA Chargers, Washington, and Kansas City. Those games come at a time when the Giants’ passing game is still finding its way.

    Last year, the Giants were 28th in the NFL in passing offense, averaging 189.9 yards per game. With Russell Wilson under center there’s hope his veteran presence will spark the deep ball. But with no significant upgrades to the OL or WR corps, it’s hard to see how the Giants can keep up with these top defenses early in the season.

    Play-Calling Questions Remain

    Another issue with the Giants’ passing game is the play-calling. In 2024, head coach Brian Daboll took play-calling away from offensive coordinator Mike Kafka. Unfortunately, the results were worse than Kafka’s tenure despite similar QB instability.

    Will Daboll continue to call plays or give it back to Kafka? Either way, fixing the passing game will require more than a change in leadership—it needs better execution, improved protection and consistent chemistry between Wilson and his receivers.

    High Stakes for Schoen and Daboll

    For GM Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll, getting off to a good start in 2025 is key, not just for the team’s morale but for their own jobs. Schoen recently told Kay Adams on FanDuel’s Up & Adams podcast, “You’d always like to get off to a fast start if you can.”

    But with this tough schedule ahead, it won’t be easy. If the Giants stumble out of the gate again (like they did in 2023 and 2024), it could be a sign of deeper issues within the organization. Ownership may start to wonder if Schoen and Daboll’s plan is worth sticking with or if it’s time for a full rebuild.

    What Needs to Happen?

    To overcome these challenges the Giants need:

    • Improved Protection: Russell Wilson needs time to throw which means the OL needs to step up.
    • Weaponry Upgrades: A reliable outside receiver would take pressure off Nabers and give Wilson more options downfield.
    • Execution Under Pressure: Facing top defenses requires precision and confidence, qualities the Giants have lacked in recent years.

    If the Giants can get a modest start it might buy Schoen and Daboll some time to prove their plan is working. But if not the calls for change will get louder.