As the New York Giants gear up for the 2026 season, all eyes are on general manager Joe Schoen. In a high-stakes environment, Schoen finds himself at a critical juncture, especially after the midseason coaching change that saw Brian Daboll exit. Now in his fifth year, Schoen has no room for excuses, particularly after securing the highly sought-after John Harbaugh early in the offseason.
Despite the numerous roster challenges ahead, Schoen can breathe a bit easier knowing he’s tackled one of the Giants' most persistent issues: the quarterback position.
The Quarterback Conundrum: A Thing of the Past
During a press conference at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Schoen shared his relief about solidifying the quarterback role with Jaxson Dart. After several offseasons filled with uncertainty, this marks a significant milestone for the Giants.
Last year, the quarterback situation was a hot topic. The Giants had experimented with veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, yet the need for a long-term solution was glaring. Schoen made a bold move by trading up to the 25th overall pick with the Houston Texans to draft Dart, a decision that has paid dividends.
Dart's rookie season was nothing short of impressive. He threw for over 2,220 yards, racked up 15 touchdown passes, added nine rushing scores, and kept turnovers to a minimum with just five interceptions in 12 starts. This performance has given the Giants a solid foundation to build upon.
Looking Ahead: Building Around Dart
With the quarterback dilemma resolved, Schoen's focus shifts to maximizing the fifth overall pick in this year's draft and navigating free agency. The task is clear: surround Dart with the talent he needs to thrive. While the specifics of Schoen's strategy remain under wraps, his relief at having addressed the quarterback position is palpable.
As the Giants look to the future, the pressure is on, but with a promising quarterback at the helm, there's a renewed sense of optimism. Schoen's next moves will be crucial in determining whether the Giants can rise from their recent struggles and make a significant impact this season.