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Jaxson Dart Sends Russell Wilson Message After First Giants Win

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Sep 28, 2025 6:08 PM ET

The New York Giants entered Sunday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers desperate for their first victory of the season. After opening 0–3, head coach Brian Daboll made the bold move to start rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart in place of veteran Russell Wilson.

The decision paid off as Dart guided the Giants to a 21–18 win in his first career NFL start. He opened the game with a 15-yard rushing touchdown and later threw a 3-yard shovel pass to tight end Theo Johnson for his first passing score. The Giants’ defense also forced key turnovers that sealed the win, but Jaxson’s impressive start was one of the game’s biggest storylines.

After the game, Dart reflected on the milestone and emphasized how much it meant: “Obviously this experience was a special one being my first one.”

He also had words for Wilson, showing respect during a difficult transition: “I honestly want to give a big shoutout to Russ. I know that this probably wasn’t the easiest thing but he handled it like a professional… I have a lot of respect for him” (via The Trentonian’s Greg Johnson)

Jaxson Dart talks about his first NFL start being a “special one” and thanks Russell Wilson for being a pro and helping him out this past week after being benched. #Giants pic.twitter.com/qIuhxTLt74
— Greg Johnson (@gregp_j) September 28, 2025

Wilson’s early-season struggles, including an 18-for-32, 160-yard performance with two interceptions against the Kansas City Chiefs, led to mounting calls for change. Dart ensured that the move did not look like a gamble, displaying poise and leadership while delivering two touchdowns.

The Giants, however, faced more adversity when standout second-year wide receiver Malik Nabers suffered a likely season-ending knee injury in the first half. It marked another major setback for an already struggling offense, but the team rallied around their new quarterback.

The Giants now prepare for a road trip to face the New Orleans Saints, followed by a divisional clash against the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles. With Dart solidifying his spot as the Giants’ leader, New York will aim to prove that Sunday’s performance was the start of a new chapter rather than a one-off breakthrough.

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

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