Giants OC Mike Kafka sends a positive message to rookie QB Jaxson Dart heading into Week 5 against the Saints

New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart is seeking to continue early momentum in his second start in the NFL. Following a solid first performance that contributed to a victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, Dart has a chance to help New York record their second consecutive win.

As the Giants prepare to face the New Orleans Saints this Sunday, offensive coordinator Mike Kafka shared with the media his evaluation of how Dart played in Week 4.

"I thought Jaxson did a nice job. He was really confident," Kafka told reporters, "He was poised, thought he controlled the line of scrimmage. Thought he handled the tempo really well. And then just kind of getting through the ebbs and flows of the game."

Mike Kafka breaks down Jaxson Dart's first start

Many Giants players and coaches have harped on the same points that separate Dart from most rookie quarterbacks: his communication and his poise. Kafka lauded the rookie's ability to navigate the pressure, and he also highlighted the impressive communication skills that were evident on Sunday.

"It was really good to see the O-line come up to him, the receivers, running backs, tight ends, and that dialog be really good on the sideline," Kafka shared with the media, "So that was that was a really cool thing to see."

Relationship building is often a skill that is easily overlooked for young quarterbacks. So far, it has been clear that Dar excels at cultivating trust with the Giants' roster and coaching staff.

Kafka also spoke on the toughness that Dart displayed, especially as a runner. It's been a sticking point with fans and the media whether Dart should protect himself better when he runs with the football. Instead of expressing fear, Kafka lauded his competitive spirit.

“Jaxson, he's a tough player, and he's competitive," stated Kafka, "And you don't want to take that away from him. I think you see it across the league with the guys, and I think just got to be smart. There's a time when you want to slide and get down. There's a time where you got to go get that yard."

It was additionally promising to hear Kafka say he doesn't want to limit how the rookie plays. Many playcallers will try to protect young players from themselves. During the game against the Chargers, Dart carried the ball ten times. That intention to let him flex his toughness and athleticism appeared deliberate. According to Kafka, it sounds like that was the case.

“I don't want to put the players in the box at all. So it's just a smart balance that we got to work through. And that'll only come with time and experience."

The Giants' offense did not have a complex game plan for Dart's first game, but there were several positives for the team to build upon. Hopefully, this Sunday against the Saints, Kafka aims to open up the passing attack.