Jaxson Dart is set to begin a fresh chapter under new coach John Harbaugh in the upcoming season. After being fired by the Ravens, he was officially hired on a five-year deal in January.
On Tuesday’s episode of “NFL on ESPN,” analyst Mina Kimes discussed this new beginning for the Giants. She also claimed that Jaxson Dart’s on-field success will be heavily reliant on wide receiver Malik Nabers.
“For me, it’s all contingent on Malik Nabers,” Kimes said. “If Malik Nabers comes back and looks like he did during his rookie season, then yea, I’m a believer. I like what they’ve done rebuilding this offensive line. I think the other skill players fall into like a nice, natural order with Nabers as the number one.
“Added Isaiah Likely as a good addition. Sounds like Cam Scarangello is on schedule. All of that sounds great. But if you take Nabers out of this group, this is one of the weakest group of skill players in the entire NFL. When I think about the things you want to see from Jaxson Dart and what comes of his development, … It’s hard for me to imagine him making that leap if Nabers isn’t on the field for the majority of the season.”
Drafted by the Giants with the No. 6 pick in 2024, Malik Nabers has established himself as a key player on offense. He recorded an impressive 1,204 yards on 109 receptions and seven TDs during his rookie campaign.
However, last season, the wide receiver suffered a torn ACL and meniscus injury in Week 4 against the Rams. He missed the rest of the season to recover. However, the rehabilitation process has not been an easy one.
Nabers had to undergo a second surgery to address some issues in his right knee. He is now projected to be on the PUP list at the start of training camp, raising doubts about his availability for Week 1.
How well did Jaxson Dart perform in 2025 after Malik Nabers’ early exit?
Despite the absence of Malik Nabers, Jaxson Dart proved his worth for the New York Giants last season. After being drafted with the No. 25 pick in the 2025 NFL draft, he initially started his rookie campaign as the backup to Russell Wilson.
However, after the team’s disappointing 0-3 start under Wilson, Dart was named as the new starting quarterback. He did not disappoint with his dual-threat abilities, recording 2,272 yards and 15 TDs passing while rushing for 487 yards and nine touchdowns in 14 games. Despite this, the Giants finished last in the NFC East with a 4-13 record.
The Giants will face the Dallas Cowboys at home in their 2026 season opener on Sept. 13. Kickoff is scheduled at 8:20 p.m. ET, with the game being broadcast on NBC and Peacock.
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