Giants QB Jaxson Dart on draft snub: "There's always a chip on your shoulder."

The New York Giants have selected quarterback Jaxson Dart with the 25th pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, a choice that reflects both opportunity and strategy.

Why it matters: The selection of Dart signifies a pivotal moment for the Giants as they seek to solidify their future at the quarterback position.

• With veteran Daniel Jones under contract, Dart’s arrival could signal a potential transition or a valuable backup role.
• Dart's acquisition also emphasizes the Giants' commitment to developing young talent in a league increasingly defined by dynamic quarterbacks.

What’s new: Dart was initially on the Saints' radar, who considered selecting him with the 9th overall pick before opting for offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. instead.

• This decision allowed the Giants to trade back into the first round and secure a player many believe has significant upside.
• Dart’s past visits with the Saints showcased his appeal; he expressed optimism about potentially joining New Orleans but is now fully committed to New York.

By the numbers: In his debut as a starting quarterback, Dart demonstrated flashes of promise despite considerable pressure.

• He completed 57 passes for 699 yards and three touchdowns during his rookie season, and in his first career start against the Chargers, he rushed for another touchdown while absorbing 17 hits.
• His performance ranked him second among quarterbacks for the week in terms of hits taken, highlighting both his resilience and the need for improved offensive protection moving forward.

Yes, but: While Dart's initial performance indicates potential, the pressures of the NFL will test his adaptability and durability.

• Playing through a hamstring injury and undergoing concussion protocols in his first game raises questions about his long-term health in a physically demanding league.
• Coach Brian Daboll emphasized the necessity of effective communication within the offense, crucial for Dart’s development as he adjusts to the speed and complexity of professional football.

What to watch: Moving forward, keep an eye on Dart's evolution as he becomes more integrated into the Giants’ offensive schemes.

• As the team focuses on building around him, his ability to command the huddle and make quick decisions under pressure will be critical.
• The Giants may look to implement a balanced approach, drawing from both spread concepts and traditional West Coast elements to maximize Dart's dual-threat capabilities.

The bottom line: The Giants’ selection of Jaxson Dart represents a calculated investment in the future, one that could significantly shape their offensive identity in the coming years.

• As the franchise navigates this new chapter, the success of Dart will hinge not only on his individual performance but also on the collective effort of a coaching staff dedicated to fostering his growth.