The Giants have drafted Abdul Carter and Jackson Dart in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft, aiming to strengthen their team.
Carter, picked third overall from Pennsylvania, was anticipated to contribute right away. However, he speculated that Dart might not be ready to play until later this season or possibly next year.
But things have changed.
Now, as the season kicks off, they step in for Russell Wilson, who has been benched following a shaky 0-3 start.
After practice on Friday, Carter was asked about whether this duo could represent the Giants’ future. He just shook his head. “We’re right now,” he remarked.
And the Giants are trying to see what that looks like.
Rather than easing Dart in after Eli Manning selected him as the 25th pick from Ole Miss, the Giants believe they’ve seen enough from the 22-year-old, especially in light of Wilson’s struggles.
Quarterback coach Shea Tierney mentioned that the team has been contemplating this transition since they picked Dart.
“It’s like going back to the draft process,” Tierney said. “We had a plan for him, and he executed that plan really well.” There were positive reflections on how he handled questions during the draft process.
Yet, if the Giants hadn’t stumbled out of the gate, Dart likely would still be a backup.
After a disappointing loss to Washington and a lackluster performance from Wilson against Dallas—one of the league’s weaker defenses—and another poor showing against Kansas City, the call for Dart became stronger.
The rookie has caught the attention of both his coach and teammates with not just his skills but also his attitude and work ethic.
As many have noted, including Jameis Winston: “He’s got swag.”
“He brings an infectious energy, and I think that’s just him,” Winston said. “When you have that, you can connect with everyone around you.”
Tierney agreed, noting, “We’ve called it ‘moxie’ before. It fits him; he’s calm under pressure. I’ve learned from Tommy DeVito that you don’t panic.”
That may be true, but it doesn’t account for the reality of facing NFL defenses in games.
“There’s no easy landing in the NFL,” Tierney continued, acknowledging the challenges that come with such a transition.
The Giants coaching staff is aware of potential ups and downs but believes Dart is resilient enough to handle it. He doesn’t seem phased by his preparation—Dabour mentioned that Dart even reached out late one night to discuss the red zone, to which the coach advised him to rest.
Dabour also emphasized that Dart shouldn’t shoulder all the responsibilities alone.
“It’s crucial for everyone to do their jobs well,” Dabour noted. “This isn’t just about the quarterback.”
No, but the Giants could certainly use some heroics.
Carter remarked on Dart’s growth since mini-camp, expressing that he had always encouraged Dart to prepare as if he were the starter. It seems they are finally here.
