The New York Giants may have finally found what they’ve been chasing for years-a true franchise quarterback. After six seasons of inconsistency with Daniel Jones, the buzz around Jaxson Dart is starting to feel different. Even with the team limping to a 4-13 finish this past season, Dart showed flashes of something the Giants haven’t seen in a long time: legitimate promise under center.
Now, with John Harbaugh stepping in as head coach-a proven winner with a Super Bowl pedigree-there’s a new sense of direction in East Rutherford. The Giants haven’t had this kind of leadership pairing in a while: a young quarterback with upside and a coach who knows how to build a winner. That combination could be the spark this franchise has needed.
Year Two Could Be the Breakout
NFL.com recently highlighted six quarterbacks poised to take a big leap in 2026, and Jaxson Dart made the list. That’s not just offseason hype-it’s a reflection of what he managed to do in a tough situation.
Dart threw for over 2,200 yards with 15 touchdown passes and nine rushing scores, all while dealing with a depleted offense. He protected the ball reasonably well too, with just five interceptions.
But the numbers only tell part of the story. Dart lost his top weapon, rookie wideout Malik Nabers, to a torn ACL in Week 4 against the Chargers.
A few weeks later, another key piece-rookie running back Cam Skattebo-went down with a brutal ankle injury against the Eagles. That’s two of your most dynamic offensive threats gone before midseason.
And yet, Dart kept the offense afloat, showing poise and playmaking ability beyond his years.
There’s still work to be done. Decision-making, particularly when Dart takes off as a runner, is an area that needs refinement.
He took more hits than you'd like to see from your franchise quarterback, and that’s something Harbaugh and his staff will surely address. The offensive coordinator hire will be crucial here-Dart needs someone who can tailor a system to his strengths, manage his development, and help him stay upright.
Harbaugh’s Impact Can’t Be Overstated
Harbaugh’s arrival changes the entire equation. He’s known for building physical, disciplined teams with a strong identity.
More importantly, he knows how to develop quarterbacks. If the Giants land the right offensive coordinator-someone who can bring creativity while keeping Dart’s growth on track-this offense could look entirely different in 2026.
Getting Nabers and Skattebo back healthy would be a massive boost. Nabers, before the injury, was showing signs of becoming a true No. 1 receiver.
Skattebo, with his versatility and toughness, was quickly becoming a reliable option out of the backfield. With those two back in the mix, Dart won’t have to do it all himself-and that’s when quarterbacks really start to thrive.
A Turning Point in the Meadowlands?
It’s been a long road for Giants fans. The post-Eli Manning era has been filled with false starts and frustration. But with Dart showing early signs of being the guy, and Harbaugh bringing credibility and structure to the sideline, there’s a real chance the Giants are finally turning a corner.
Of course, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. Sophomore slumps are real.
Injuries happen. But if Dart continues to develop, and if the team around him gets healthy and stays that way, there’s every reason to believe he can take a big step forward in Year Two.
Giants fans have been waiting a long time for hope at quarterback. They just might have it now.