The father of New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart has launched a fierce public defence of his son, as speculation intensifies that the franchise may not see the rookie as their long-term answer under centre.
Draft Talk Sparks Debate on Dart's Future
The controversy ignited after a report from NFL insider 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 securing that top pick unlikely, the mere suggestion has cast doubt on the organisation's full confidence in Dart.
This report fuelled wider debate about Dart's rookie season. Former Giants quarterback and current CBS Sports analyst Danny Kanell added his voice after Sunday's win, stating he remains unconvinced. '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.'
Family Firestorm and Rookie Resilience
The criticism prompted an immediate and blunt response from Dart's father, Brandon Dart, on social media platform X. Replying directly to a clip of Kanell's comments, he wrote: 'Bro, Eat a Fat One!'
For his part, Jaxson Dart appeared unruffled when addressing reporters after leading the Giants to a 34-10 win over the Raiders. 'I'm going to continue to play my ball,' Dart asserted. 'I know I'm going to be here for a very long time. I'm excited to start winning more games and turn this place around.' He also pointed to a promising rookie class, despite season-ending injuries to key players like running back Cam Skattebo and wide receiver Malik Nabers.
Dart, who took over from veteran Russell Wilson in Week 4 after the Giants traded back into the first round of the 2025 Draft to select him, has been a rare bright spot in a difficult 3-13 campaign. In the victory over Las Vegas, he completed 22 of 30 passes for 207 yards, further endearing himself to a fanbase that never fully embraced Wilson.
A Pivotal Offseason Looms for the Giants
The Giants are expected to retain General Manager Joe Schoen, who will lead the search for a new head coach after Brian Daboll's mid-season firing. This appointment will be crucial in clarifying Dart's future with the team.
The final chapter of this regular season could still dramatically alter the landscape. If the Giants lose to the Dallas Cowboys and the Raiders beat the Kansas City Chiefs, New York would secure the No. 1 overall pick for the 2026 Draft. Such an outcome would force the franchise into a monumental decision about whether to stick with Dart or select a new quarterback prospect, ensuring this debate will rage deep into the offseason.
