Giants HC Brian Daboll could make key decision on his QB1 between Russell Wilson and Jaxson Dart

Russell Wilson joined the New York Giants in the latest free agency with the goal of becoming the leader of a team looking to get back on track. However, the selection of Jaxson Dart in the most recent draft—along with the addition of Jameis Winston—puts Brian Daboll in a tough spot, as he now faces a crucial decision on who will be his starting quarterback for the upcoming NFL season.

While no one questions Dart’s talent—especially after a standout season with the Ole Miss Rebels in the NCAAF—all signs point to the rookie spending more time on the sidelines than under center, at least early on in the season.

According to the latest report from NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, the most likely scenario is that Russell Wilson will get the Week 1 start for the Giants, while the former Ole Miss standout is expected to spend most of his time on the bench.

“The stage is set for Jaxson Dart to sit an extended period,” the insider reported via @JFowlerESPN. While the Giants’ plan, according to Fowler, is expected to take shape during minicamp, all indications are that—barring any setbacks—it will carry over into the regular season.

Jaxson Dart #QB03 of Mississippi participates in a drill during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 01, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Inside the Giants’ quarterback dilemma

As the arrivals of Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston unfolded—coupled with the selection of Jaxson Dart in the latest draft—the main debate quickly shifted to who would lead the Giants under center in Week 1, especially after the serious struggles the team has faced at the quarterback position in recent seasons.

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ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler joined the ongoing debate, stating during a recent appearance that the New York Giants are looking for a quarterback who can win games—someone capable of leading the team on the field and delivering results.

“They feel like they can win games with just capable, turnover-free quarterback play,” Fowler revealed on @ESPNNFL.

Joe Schoen weighs in on Dart’s role

General Manager Joe Schoen was another key figure to weigh in on the Giants’ starting QB position, addressing the looming decision between Russell Wilson and Jaxson Dart ahead of the upcoming NFL season.

“Jaxson’s going to come in, he’s got to learn the offense, there’s a lot to learn,” Schoen said to the press. “These NFL offenses are hard to grasp and pick up and then be able to go out and execute, so the ability for him to learn and sit behind two consummate pros already will be beneficial for him.”