Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Jaxson Dart News Emerges After First Season with Giants

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jan 22, 2026 11:24 AM ET

The New York Giants missed the playoffs for the third straight season in 2025. They went 4-13, leaving them in last place in the NFC East. The team's failure to win ultimately led to the firing of head coach Brian Daboll, who has been replaced by former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh.

However, the Giants still had several bright spots, including rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. He appeared in 14 games, making 12 starts. The first round pick out of Ole Miss completed 216 of 339 passes for 2,272 yards, 15 touchdowns, five interceptions and a 91.7 passer rating. He also rushed for 487 yards and nine touchdowns.

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6).Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

His performance on the field continues to earn national recognition. On Thursday, the Giants announced that Dart has been named a finalist for AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. His teammate, Abdul Carter, is a finalist for AP Defensive Rookie of the Year.

"Jaxson Dart & Abdul Carter are nominated for AP NFL Rookie of the Year honors," the team wrote via an X post.

Jaxson Dart & Abdul Carter are nominated for AP NFL Rookie of the Year honors

: https://t.co/uklaGk7yju pic.twitter.com/6EZnqRuJNS
— New York Giants (@Giants) January 22, 2026

The awards are given to the best first-year players on offense and defense. Dart is one of five finalists, joined by Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Emeka Egbuka, New England Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson, Carolina Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan and New Orleans Saints QB Tyler Shough.

Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels won AP Offensive Rookie of the Year last season. Dart has the opportunity to become the third Giants player to win the award. He would join RB Saquon Barkley (2018) and WR Odell Beckham Jr. (2014).

The winner will be announced at the NFL Honors ceremony on Feb. 5, airing at 9 p.m. ET on NBC and NFL Network.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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