Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson has been benched by the New York Giants, with interim offensive coordinator Mike Kafka opting for Jameis Winston as the new starter. The decision comes after rookie Jaxson Dart entered concussion protocol, and follows the firing of head coach Brian Daboll.
Wilson, 36, expressed his desire to remain with the Giants despite the setback. 'I love it here; I love my teammates,' he said. 'I want to see it through. I haven’t asked for a release or anything like that. I want to be here.'
The 10-time Pro Bowler, who won Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks, is in the final year of a one-year contract signed in March. He remains confident in his abilities, citing a standout Week 2 performance against Dallas where he threw for 450 yards and three touchdowns. However, that game also featured a costly overtime interception in a 40-37 loss.
Excluding that game, Wilson's statistics from two other starts and three relief appearances show 39 completions from 78 attempts for 381 yards and two interceptions. The Giants currently hold a 2-8 record, leading to Daboll's dismissal and Kafka's promotion.
Kafka praised Wilson's professionalism despite the demotion. 'Russ is one of the best team players I’ve ever been around,' he said. 'He’s one of the best locker room guys I’ve ever been around, and I know he’ll attack this role with everything he has.'
With Dart in concussion protocol, Wilson remains one injury away from returning to the field. Kafka did not commit to Winston as the permanent backup once Dart is cleared. 'I’m just excited for the next opportunity to step between the white lines,' Wilson said. 'I’m not going to stop swinging.'
