The New York Giants entered this offseason knowing they needed a short-term answer while developing a long-term franchise quarterback.
They settled on Russell Wilson, signing him to a modest one-year deal to handle starting duties while Jaxson Dart learned behind the scenes.
The move was strategic, giving Dart time to adapt to the NFL without being thrown into chaos from day one.
In his preseason debut, Dart displayed poise, decisiveness, and an aggressiveness in the passing game absent from Daniel Jones for years.
A near-miss that could have crippled the franchise
What makes this quarterback plan even more critical is how close the Giants came to making a disastrous move.
Reports earlier this year linked them heavily to Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, who later signed a two-year, $84 million extension.
Had the Giants acquired him, they reportedly would have surrendered premium draft capital and committed roughly $100 million to his contract.
Such a move would have handcuffed their ability to invest elsewhere, particularly on defense, where they spent nearly $100 million this offseason.
Stafford’s injury proves the Giants’ restraint was wise
Stafford is now battling a significant back issue, a red flag for a quarterback entering his mid-30s with years of wear and tear.
On Monday, he was spotted in street clothes during practice, missing valuable time as the preseason schedule pushes forward.
While the Rams may be exercising caution, a lingering back injury for a starting quarterback is a dangerous proposition.
If the Giants were tied to Stafford financially and he missed extended time, it could have derailed their entire 2025 campaign.
Financial flexibility fueling roster balance
By avoiding a massive quarterback contract, general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll kept their roster-building options open.
That flexibility allowed them to secure cornerback Paulson Adebo and safety Jevon Holland, dramatically upgrading a defense that needed reinforcements.
With a cheaper veteran like Wilson, they maintain a serviceable starter while giving Dart a developmental runway to take over in 2026.
This balanced approach has kept the Giants competitive now while positioning them for greater success in the coming seasons.
- Giants’ former top-5 pass-rusher is under pressure to perform after bye week
- Giants’ Jaxson Dart is playing a terrifying game
- Giants trade down but still land dynamic playmaker in latest 2026 mock draft
Dart’s early flashes bring optimism for the future
In limited action, Dart showcased the arm talent, mobility, and decision-making that made him a first-round target for the Giants.
His ability to push the ball downfield without hesitation contrasts sharply with the more conservative approach fans saw in recent years.
If that confidence translates into regular-season performances, the Giants could be looking at a future centerpiece under center.
Avoiding the Stafford gamble may prove to be the single most important decision of their recent history.
More about: New York Giants
