Giants Rookie QB Jaxson Dart Cleared After Injury Scare—Why He Needs to Slide More

By Jason Bolton August 24, 2025 10:03

New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart was cleared after a frightening injury scare in the team’s final preseason game against the New England Patriots on August 21, 2025. While Dart’s health relief was a cause for celebration for Giants fans, the incident has reignited debates about the young quarterback’s approach to running with the ball specifically, why he needs to slide more to protect himself in a league filled with tough defenders and high stakes.

The injury scare occurred late in the first quarter when Dart scrambled for 23 yards on a critical fourth down play. In an attempt to power through multiple defenders rather than sliding, Dart fumbled the ball and slammed his head into the turf. The officials immediately stopped the game, and Dart was removed for a concussion evaluation. Though he cleared concussion protocol and was ultimately unharmed, Dart did not return to play in the second half of the Giants’ commanding 42-10 victory.

Giants head coach Brian Daboll commented on the incident after the game with a mix of praise for Dart’s competitiveness and gentle criticism about his decision-making. “There are just certain moments when you need to make the right call,” Daboll said. “In this specific game, it was probably a good time to slide. I appreciate Jaxson’s toughness and competitiveness, but he has to be smarter about protecting himself.”

Dart himself acknowledged the lesson. “Yeah, I mean, I just shouldn’t have fumbled,” he said. “Honestly, I felt like I could split them and make a bigger play. I thought I could break a tackle, then I’m gone. But sliding is definitely the right call in situations like that.”

Over the preseason, Dart displayed flashes of why he was a first-round draft pick out of Ole Miss. Across three games, he completed 32 of 47 passes for 372 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions, while contributing 52 rushing yards and a touchdown on six attempts. His combination of arm talent and mobility creates excitement around his potential to be a long-term starter in New York.

However, his willingness to risk injury by playing aggressively on the ground sets off alarm bells. Quarterbacks in the NFL face relentless hits, and sliding is a critical skill for minimizing damage and extending careers. Giants veteran quarterback Russell Wilson has spoken highly of Dart’s character and work ethic but also understands the importance of smart football decisions.

“Protect yourself,” Wilson advised. “Learn when to take a hit and when to avoid it. The game’s long, and you have to be around for the long haul to make an impact.”

Jaxson Dart’s injury scare serves as a teaching moment. While his competitive fire and athleticism are clear assets, the NFL demands calculated risk-taking. The Giants want Dart to learn that sometimes the best play is the safest one, especially in preseason where long-term health matters most.

As Draft experts point out, the Giants’ plan involves bringing Dart along carefully behind Wilson until he’s ready to take over. His early preseason performances build optimism, but his growth will depend on refining decision-making and mastering aspects like sliding, pocket presence, and game management.

Dart’s recent injury scare in New England was more than a cautionary tale; it was a pivotal step in his professional education. His talent remains undeniable, but embracing safer running techniques like sliding will be essential to maximizing his NFL longevity and impact. Giants fans can be hopeful, yet remind Dart smartness on the turf matters just as much as toughness.