Big Blue View
The rookie quarterback reflects on his early NFL growing pains, mentorship from veterans, and the long road ahead.
New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart wrapped up his first NFL spring with a balanced mix of humility and ambition, acknowledging both the steep learning curve and the strides he’s made since arriving in the building.
Speaking with reporters after minicamp, Dart gave an honest self-assessment of his development. “I feel like I’ve made tremendous strides especially from my first day to now,” Dart said. “Just being able to understand the pictures of the offense and whatnot... I’m definitely just trying to take it to the next level over the summer.”
The former Ole Miss standout has had his share of growing pains, a common reality for young quarterbacks adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses. Dart admitted that in college, there were throws he could get away with that don’t fly in the pros. “You feel confident, and you have guys on the other end who are extremely talented… that’s probably the biggest thing — just the athleticism on the other side of the ball.”
Still, Dart embraces the learning process. He’s not afraid to make mistakes, knowing they’re a necessary part of his evolution. “You can ask the best to ever do it… making mistakes and being able to watch it, look back on it, and have a lot of humility — that’s how you get better.”
For now, the Giants’ quarterback room is a crowded one. Dart is learning alongside veterans Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Tommy DeVito. It’s a situation he calls a blessing, and one he’s fully taking advantage of.
“I try to sit down and listen any time I see them after practices or in meetings. I don’t have any pride about myself going over to ask questions,” Dart said. “There’s so much I can take away from them.”
He’s particularly taken by how Wilson commands the huddle and orchestrates the offense. “He just has a confidence about him… everybody feels confident when he is out there.”
Giants head coach Brian Daboll hinted this spring was all about testing Dart’s ability to absorb information, push his limits, and then build him back up. Dart acknowledged those early days were overwhelming. “You definitely feel like you’re swimming a little bit… things are happening a little faster than usual,” he said.
But Dart isn’t focused on immediate results. He’s all about the process. “I just trust them,” he said of the Giants’ coaching staff. “I’m a process-driven person. I’m just taking it day by day, rep by rep.”
And while there’s no timeline publicly laid out for Dart’s future under center, it’s clear he’s locked in on the long game.
“I have a vision and a goal for myself that goes far beyond just starting here,” Dart said. “I know for me to do that, I’m going to have to put in all that I can.”
