Giants QB Dart on lengthy concussion evaluation: "It felt so long... just trying to get out there fast."

The NFL is reviewing the concussion protocol applied to Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart during a recent game against the Philadelphia Eagles, raising questions about player safety and evaluation processes.

Why it matters: The scrutiny of Dart's concussion evaluation process comes at a time when player health is under heightened focus in the NFL.

• Concerns over concussions have led to increased oversight of protocols, especially following several high-profile incidents involving head injuries.
• A thorough examination could prompt changes that impact how players are assessed across the league.

What’s new: Dart was evaluated for a concussion late in the third quarter after being sacked by Eagles linebacker Patrick Johnson.

• After this hit, Dart fell into teammate Azeez Ojulari, prompting medical staff to assess him on the sideline.
• Coach Brian Daboll expressed impatience with the duration of Dart’s evaluation, highlighting the tension between urgency and safety.

Yes, but: While impatience from coaching staff is understandable, it underscores the complexity of balancing competitive pressures with player welfare.

• Daboll acknowledged his frustration, stating, "I apologized directly to our team physician... You want your guy out there, not at risk of anything else."
• This sentiment reflects a broader culture in professional sports where winning often clashes with health considerations.

What to watch: Dart’s experience is not isolated; he has already missed time during games for concussion evaluations multiple times this season, including in the preseason.

• His previous evaluations raise concerns about whether he is being adequately protected or if the current protocols are effective.
• Observations from other players, like rookie Cam Skattebo, indicate a camaraderie among teammates, but that does not negate the necessity of rigorous medical assessments.

By the numbers: Statistics show the increasing prevalence of concussion-related evaluations in the NFL, which can significantly affect game outcomes.

• Dart’s situation serves as a reminder of the physical toll the sport takes on players, especially young quarterbacks navigating the demands of the game.

The bottom line: As the NFL reviews its concussion protocols, the case of Jaxson Dart highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring player safety while maintaining competitive integrity.

• The league's response could set a precedent for how future evaluations are conducted, potentially influencing the treatment of head injuries in football overall.