Jaxson Dart has emerged as the top rookie quarterback in the NFL this season, but his style of play has raised significant concerns about his safety. Despite the enthusiasm fans have for the New York Giants star”s fierce competitiveness, his reckless approach is coming under scrutiny. This past weekend”s matchup against the Chicago Bears exemplified these concerns, as Dart suffered a concussion in the second half of the Giants” 24-20 defeat.
During a critical moment, Dart attempted to extend a play but took a hard hit, causing him to collapse. His head struck the ground, and he slowly rose to his feet before making yet another trip to the blue medical tent, marking his fourth concussion evaluation this season, including preseason assessments. Since taking over as the starter in Week 4, Dart has experienced significant contact, enduring nearly 13 hits per game. This is exacerbated by the Giants” frequent calls for designed quarterback runs, intensifying the physical toll on the rookie.
In the game, Dart recorded 242 passing yards and 66 rushing yards, making history as the first rookie quarterback to score rushing touchdowns in five consecutive games. However, despite these impressive numbers, questions about his longevity in the league are growing. Former MVP Matt Ryan weighed in on the situation during an episode of The Inner Circle Podcast, emphasizing the importance of a franchise quarterback”s availability. “You”ve got to be available to play when you”re a franchise quarterback,” he stated, noting that consistency is what differentiates players like Matthew Stafford from those who take unnecessary risks like Dart.
Ryan praised Dart”s competitive spirit but insisted that his current approach needs to change. “As a player, you can”t put yourself in harm”s way if you can avoid it. There”s a time and a place. And the time and place is on critical third or fourth downs in the fourth quarter — not in the first, second, or third quarter in the regular season,” he explained. Ryan”s remarks encapsulated the ongoing discussion: “There are just too many visits to the blue tent. Too many of those are self-inflicted.”
Veteran defensive player Aaron Donald echoed Ryan”s sentiments, expressing concern for Dart”s wellbeing given the physical nature of the game. “He”s been taking a beating for sure… I was watching that game last week and I”m like, “God, just slide down!”” Donald reiterated the importance of Dart preserving his health, stating, “He can get away with it now… a little young, yeah, but long term that”s not going to work. It”s too physical.”
Dart himself acknowledged the challenge of balancing toughness with smart decision-making, admitting, “It”s really hard for me… I just want to compete. Ultimately, I just want to score.” This eagerness to push the limits is part of what makes Dart an exciting player, but it also puts him at risk.
All that the Giants can do now is hope that Dart”s recent concussion serves as a wake-up call for him to adapt his playing style. With respected veterans like Ryan and Donald urging him to prioritize his safety, it is evident that changes are necessary for Dart to continue his promising career without jeopardizing his long-term health.
