Jackson Dart is determined to give his all, even if it means sticking around in the game long after it’s practically decided.
In the closing minutes of last week’s matchup against the 49ers, with the Giants down 34-17, Dart absorbed some tough hits but still managed to throw a touchdown to Gunner Olszewski with just over a minute to go.
That night, the Commanders were facing a 38-7 deficit against the Seahawks when QB Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow after being sacked, leaving 7:39 on the clock.
The following day, when questioned about why Daniels remained in such a lopsided game, Commanders head coach Dan Quinn admitted, “I missed it,” taking full responsibility for the decision.
Dart expressed his concern for Daniels, mentioning they had practiced together back in high school. “First of all, prayers to him…you definitely hate to see it,” Dart noted.
Despite the risks, Dart had no intention of stepping off the field to avoid an injury similar to Daniels’.
“No matter how you look at it, up or down, I never want to exit a game,” he said. Reflecting on a previous game where he played in a comfortable lead, he insisted, “Even if you try to substitute me out, I’m not leaving the field.” Competitiveness drives him, and he feels like a game is never truly over until that final clock signal sounds.
After practice, the Giants noticed a new black folding chair with a cushion replacing the old backless stool in the locker room, a change suggested by Kayvon Thibodeaux. The team provided a couple of chair options for players.
“This one had a thicker cushion,” noted security guard John Runyan. “The stool wasn’t in bad shape, but it’s nice to have a comfortable chair with a backrest. During my time in Green Bay, we had no chairs at all—we just sat in our lockers. That was tricky.”
Thibodeau was quite pleased about the enhancement. “I’m very grateful,” he remarked.
On the injury front, there was a mix of good and bad news for the Giants. Safety Jevon Holland was limited due to a knee issue, while tight end Daniel Bellinger had returned fully from a neck injury and participated in practice. Cornerback Cordale Flott was back for non-contact drills, but several players remained unable to practice. Notably, right tackle Jermaine Elemunor was dealing with a pectoral muscle issue, center John Michael Schmitz Jr. had a shin injury, and other players faced various ailments.
In another context, Tom Coughlin edged closer to Pro Football Hall of Fame induction. The Hall announced nine semifinalists in the coaches’ category, which includes Coughlin, recognized for leading the Giants to two consecutive Super Bowl victories.
The committee will now select one candidate to present to the Hall of Fame Selection Committee for the Class of 2026.
