Jaxson Dart has sparked fresh optimism in New York with his strong early-season play, quickly proving he has the potential to become the franchise’s long-term answer under center. But alongside that promise comes growing concern, as the rookie has absorbed several hard hits this year, including in Week 10.
While the Giants are urging Dart to be more cautious with his scrambles to protect himself, former NFL MVP Cam Newton has offered a contrasting viewpoint. Drawing on his own career, Newton suggested that Dart shouldn’t shy away from using his athleticism but should instead learn how to manage contact more strategically.
Cam Newton Explains How Jaxson Dart Can Protect Himself Without Giving Up Running
Dart has dealt with multiple concussion scares this season, absorbing a total of 84 hits across both rushing and passing plays. The most recent incident came in Week 10 against the Bears, when the Giants called five high-impact designed runs for the rookie, ultimately leading to another concussion evaluation.
He has since been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Packers, and with most of these hits coming on scrambles, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Giants are urging the rookie to be more deliberate and cautious when deciding to run. However, Newton believes that running is a natural part of Dart’s game, and he should instead learn to protect himself more effectively.
“What I would challenge Jaxson Dart to do is this: find the weak spot of any defender approaching you,” Newton said on his “4th and 1” show. “There will come a time when you will run, it’s just in your nature.
“You don’t always have to run and deliver the blow. When defenders are approaching, learn how to slide. When I was running, I could feel a defender coming, and when I saw him, I would dive at their legs. He has to add that type of skill.”
Cam says Jaxson Dart has the soul, now he needs the survival skills pic.twitter.com/sZ4Eg1FMHf
— 4th&1 with Cam Newton (@4thand1show) November 16, 2025
Widely considered one of the greatest dual-threat quarterbacks in NFL history, Newton revolutionized the position with his physicality and versatility. If advice is coming from him, Dart would be wise to listen.
The 22-year-old has appeared in nine games and started seven of them, posting a 2–5 record as a starter. Despite the team’s struggles, his individual production has been impressive: he has thrown for 1,417 yards and 10 touchdowns with a 62.7% completion rate, while adding 317 rushing yards and seven scores on the ground.
Dart currently ranks 14th in PFSN’s QB Impact Metric with a score of 80.1 and a B- grade. He is expected to return to the field in Week 12.