New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart has come on in a big way during his rookie season. The 25th overall selection from the 2025 NFL Draft has looked promising, prompting fans to believe the franchise has found its quarterback of the future.
However, following multiple injury scares early in his NFL career, many have begun criticizing the quarterback for his failure to protect himself on the field. Following the Giants’ 33-15 loss to the surging New England Patriots on Monday Night Football, a game in which he took numerous big hits, Dart had some emphatic words about his play style.
Jaxson Dart Unapologetic About His Playstyle After Punishing Night
Following the road loss to the Patriots, reporters asked Dart postgame whether he would have done anything differently to protect himself better and avoid the massive hits the New England defense laid on him. His response was quite clear.
#Giants QB Jaxson Dart says he won’t change the way he plays.
“This is football. … I’ve played this way my entire life. … We’re not playing soccer out here. … Turn on my high school tape. Turn on my college tape. This is not a shocker to anybody.”
(📽️ @Giants) https://t.co/7yHOEi1tXc pic.twitter.com/YNkE4w9TEh
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) December 2, 2025
“No,” Dart quickly said. “This is football. … I’ve played this way my entire life. … We’re not playing soccer out here. … Turn on my high school tape. Turn on my college tape. This is not a shocker to anybody.”
The question undoubtedly stems from the viral hit that sent Dart airborne in the first quarter of the game. The collision occurred as Dart remained in bounds, looking for a couple of extra yards on the play, prompting fans to wonder why the quarterback did not just get out of bounds to avoid the contact.
The Giants’ Week 13 loss was the first game back for Dart after missing two weeks with a concussion. His return, marked by numerous heavy hits, was a cause for concern for fans and coaches alike, who hope to see the Giants’ franchise quarterback stay on the field. Dart remains steady on the fact that hits are a part of the game, even stating that the contact will come whether he is in the pocket or not.
Dart clearly takes pride in his ability to make plays with his legs. Still, with the Giants’ season all but concluded and the playoffs no longer an attainable goal, fans would like to see him play a bit more conservatively, with an emphasis on protecting himself.
Dart has impressed mightily in his rookie campaign, even if it has been limited in time. Through 10 appearances this season, the Giants’ quarterback holds a 76.5 (C) QB Impact score according to PFSN’s metrics. These are impressive numbers for a rookie who started the year on the bench and has missed multiple games due to injury.
The Giants now head to their bye week, giving Dart more time to rest up and prepare his body for the final four games of the season. Dart and the Giants now hope to end the year on a strong note, gaining confidence and momentum for the 2026 season.