The father of New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart has launched a fiery defence of his son, as speculation intensifies that the franchise may not see the rookie as their long-term answer under centre.
Dart's Dad Enters the Fray
The debate was ignited when respected NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport suggested the Giants would consider drafting quarterback Fernando Mendoza if they held the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Although the Giants' victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday makes that top pick unlikely, Rapoport's report indicated lingering doubts within the organisation about Dart.
This sparked wider commentary, including from former Giants starter Danny Kanell. Speaking on CBS Sports after the win, Kanell expressed his own reservations. 'I don't know if Jaxson Dart is the long-term answer for the Giants,' Kanell said. 'I still haven't seen development as a passer. I want to see him take that next step, and I just haven't seen it yet.'
In a blunt response on social media platform X, Brandon Dart fired back at the critique with a sharply worded retort aimed at Kanell.
The Rookie's Response and Season Context
For his part, Jaxson Dart appeared unperturbed by the swirling rumours when addressing reporters. Following the 34-10 win over the Raiders, where he completed 22 of 30 passes for 207 yards, the quarterback projected confidence about his future in New York.
'I'm going to continue to play my ball,' Dart stated. 'I know I'm going to be here for a very long time. We have a bright future... and we're going to turn this thing around.'
Dart took over from veteran Russell Wilson in Week 4 of his debut season, after the Giants traded back into the first round of the 2025 Draft to select him. Despite the team's difficult 3-13 campaign, he has been viewed as a positive development. His emergence came amidst a season marred by severe injuries to promising rookies like running back Cam Skattebo and wide receiver Malik Nabers, both expected back for 2026.
A Defining Decision Looms for the Giants
The Giants are now poised for an offseason of significant change. The organisation is expected to retain General Manager Joe Schoen, who will lead the search for a new head coach after Brian Daboll's mid-season dismissal.
Dart's future will become a central focus of this new regime. The final game of the regular season against the Dallas Cowboys carries weight; a Giants loss combined with a Raiders win over the Kansas City Chiefs would still secure New York the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2026 Draft. That scenario would force the franchise into a monumental decision regarding their commitment to Jaxson Dart as their franchise quarterback.
