Giants' Mike Kafka campaigns for Jaxson Dart after Fernando Mendoza report

A recent report suggested that the New York Giants could spend a high 2026 draft pick on a quarterback prospect such as 2025 Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza and then make rookie signal-caller Jaxson Dart available to other teams. 

While speaking with reporters on Monday, Giants interim head coach Mike Kafka shared that he has "no doubt" Dart can be the club's long-term answer at the position. 

Jaxson Dart "continuing to take steps forward" amid lost season

"He’s learning every day, absorbing as much as he can, and putting his own fingerprint on things," Kafka said about Dart, per John Flanigan of SNY. "That’s what’s most important is you see the growth and you see a player that’s continuing to learn from the good, the bad, and continuing to take steps forward and continuing to step up and rise to the occasion when things aren’t great." 

The Giants will enter Week 18 at 3-13, and Dart missed two November games during his debut regular season because of a concussion. That said, Giants reporter Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News has hinted that the club will retain general manager Joe Schoen. Earlier in December, Schoen took credit for the Giants acquiring Dart during this year's draft. 

Meanwhile, Giants legend Tiki Barber works as an analyst for the franchise's radio programs and is close with team co-owner John Mara. Barber is convinced that individuals within the Giants are sold on Dart. 

Jaxson Dart already a leader with Giants?

Following the Giants' 34-10 win over the Las Vegas Raiders this past Sunday, Dart said he knows he is "going to be here for a very long time." The same may not be true regarding Kafka, but he nevertheless seems to believe the Giants should keep Dart as their QB1 for the foreseeable future. 

"Those are the leadership qualities you’re seeing from Jaxson, and as a player, he’s going to continue to grow and get better -- I’m proud to be working with him and happy for him, and I’m excited to continue to do that this week," Kafka added about Dart.

Dart is on track to start when the Giants finish their season with a home game versus the rival Dallas Cowboys (7-8-1) this coming Sunday.