David Tyree Says It’s Time to Sit Jaxson Dart - and Let the Rookie Watch From the Sidelines
Former Giants wide receiver David Tyree knows what it looks like when a young quarterback has “it.” And based on what he’s seen from Jaxson Dart this season, he believes the Giants have something special on their hands. But now, with three games left in a lost season, Tyree says it’s time to protect that investment - not push it.
Speaking on the “Blue Rush” podcast, Tyree didn’t mince words: he wants the Giants to sit Dart and hand the reins to veteran Jameis Winston to close out the year.
“I’ve personally been heavy on sitting Jaxson Dart ever since I saw Jameis Winston [play],” Tyree said. “The thought process the Giants had at the beginning of the season was the right game plan. Get a young, talented quarterback in and allow him to actually sit and learn.”
It’s a perspective rooted in long-term thinking. Dart, the Giants’ first-round pick at No. 25 overall, has flashed plenty of promise this season.
Since taking over the starting job from Russell Wilson in Week 4, he’s thrown for 1,802 yards with 13 touchdowns and just four interceptions over 11 games. That’s not just rookie production - that’s a solid foundation.
But Tyree’s concern isn’t about what Dart can do - it’s about what more he might endure.
Dart has already missed two games this season due to a concussion and was evaluated again for one following Sunday’s loss to the Commanders. He’s taken a lot of hits, and while his toughness is admirable, Tyree sees risk outweighing reward at this stage of the season.
“The risks are too great at this point, in light of what the Giants are paying for it,” Tyree said. “You’re paying these backup quarterbacks - put them out there and give them a chance to continue their careers in the National Football League.”
Winston, a former No. 1 overall pick, stepped in during Dart’s absence earlier this season and gave the Giants a spark. He may not be the long-term answer, but Tyree believes he’s more than capable of managing the offense while giving Dart a chance to reset and stay healthy.
“He actually gave you a good flash, and some revival, some excitement,” Tyree said. “He’s not just a media frenzy. He’s actually a solid NFL quarterback who can really produce for you.”
This isn’t just about one player - it’s about the bigger picture. Interim head coach Mike Kafka and GM Joe Schoen are staring down a stretch of tough decisions, and Tyree is urging them to think beyond the final three games. With the playoffs out of reach and the offensive line still struggling to keep Dart upright, the logic is simple: protect your franchise quarterback now so he can become your franchise quarterback later.
“We’ve seen enough positives. We know that we actually have something special brewing,” Tyree said. “So sit Jaxson Dart’s behind down, so he can be the future of the franchise.”
It’s a message from a former Giant who understands the stakes - and the value of patience when it comes to developing a young quarterback.