Russell Wilson Stands Firm as Giants’ Starter While Rookie Dart Waits in the Wings
The New York Giants have chosen the path of experience this season, placing veteran quarterback Russell Wilson at the helm of their offense. Wilson, now in his 14th NFL season, signed a one-year, $21 million contract with the Giants during the offseason, bringing his wealth of experience to a team in transition. Meanwhile, rookie Jaxson Dart, whom the Giants selected with the 25th overall pick after trading back into the first round of the NFL Draft, stands ready as the backup after impressing coaches during preseason play. The dynamic between the seasoned veteran and the promising rookie creates an interesting subplot to the Giants’ 2023 season.
When asked about Dart’s abilities compared to his own rookie season—when Wilson famously overtook veteran Matt Flynn in Seattle despite Flynn’s fresh three-year, $26 million contract—Wilson spoke graciously about his young teammate. “I think Jaxson is a really good worker. He’s a really good teammate. He’s a guy who’s had a really good college career,” Wilson remarked in July. Rather than drawing direct comparisons, Wilson pivoted to emphasize his own journey and current focus: “For me, I’ve been fortunate and blessed… to be able to do all the things I’ve been able to do, just by the grace of God, a lot of hard work and a lot of good teammates, and, you know, my focus is helping the New York Giants win daily.” His response showed both respect for Dart’s potential while maintaining the professional focus expected of a starting quarterback.
The situation in New York bears some striking parallels to Wilson’s own breakthrough in Seattle back in 2012. As a third-round rookie that year, Wilson defied expectations by winning the starting job over Flynn, who had just signed a lucrative deal with the Seahawks. What followed became NFL legend, as Wilson led Seattle to an impressive 11-5 record and a playoff victory in his debut season. This history adds an intriguing dimension to the current quarterback room in New York, where Wilson now finds himself in the veteran role he once displaced. The cyclical nature of professional sports careers is on full display, with Wilson perhaps seeing glimpses of his younger self in Dart’s eager presence on the sidelines.
Both quarterbacks are newcomers to the Giants organization, creating a fresh start for the team’s offensive identity. Wilson brings his championship pedigree and years of high-level play across multiple franchises, while Dart represents the team’s investment in their future. The Giants’ decision to trade back up into the first round to secure Dart speaks volumes about their belief in his potential, even as they rely on Wilson’s steady hand to navigate the immediate challenges of the season. The dynamic creates a natural mentorship opportunity, with Dart able to learn from one of the most successful quarterbacks of the past decade while preparing for his eventual opportunity.
The season opener against the Washington Commanders did not go as hoped, with the Giants falling 21-6 under Wilson’s direction. Despite the disappointing result, head coach Brian Daboll has confirmed that Wilson will remain the starter heading into Week 2’s matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. This decision signals the organization’s commitment to their initial plan of letting Wilson lead while Dart develops, though the NFL’s unforgiving spotlight means that quarterback conversations will continue with each passing game. The patience shown with Wilson reflects both respect for his track record and acknowledgment that team struggles often extend far beyond quarterback play alone.
As the season unfolds, the relationship between Wilson and Dart will be worth watching closely. In a league where quarterback transitions can define franchise trajectories for years to come, the Giants are attempting to balance present competitiveness with future development. Wilson’s approach to mentorship could prove as valuable to the organization as his on-field performance, particularly if he embraces the opportunity to guide Dart’s growth. For Dart, the chance to observe Wilson’s professionalism, preparation, and poise under pressure provides an education that extends beyond any playbook. Whether this season ends with Wilson cementing his position or gradually giving way to the rookie remains one of the compelling storylines in a New York season filled with both immediate hopes and long-term aspirations.
