Jon Gruden Makes Statement on Being Giants Head Coach

“First of all, it’s the New York Giants,” Gruden told ESPN. “I mean it is one of the founding franchises of football. It’s New York. It’s Jaxson Dart. You know what kind of talent he is. You know he has the arm talent, the athleticism. I know he’s a smart guy. He’s a great competitor. I think that is pretty much a good summary of why this is a desirable job.”

Gruden's admiration for Dart was on record before the Giants drafted the rookie standout out of Ole Miss with the No. 25 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Gruden filmed an episode of "Gruden’s QB Class" on Barstool Sports with Dart, describing him afterward as a "franchise changing player."

Dart's first seven starts in the NFL — including both Giants' wins against the Los Angeles Chargers and Philadelphia Eagles — have proven his potential. He has thrown for 1,417 yards, 10 touchdowns and three interceptions. His 317 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns paint an even brighter picture, but Gruden and the Giants agree he has to be smarter with his legs to avoid more concussions and injuries.

“This has the potential to be a great situation,” Gruden said. “But Dart has to do his part. He’s got to stay healthy. He has to stay out there. He has to be what he’s supposed to be.”

General manager Joe Schoen is conducting a search for the head coaching position, which has been open since the team  fired Daboll on Nov. 10 and replaced him with interim head coach Mike Kafka.

Gruden, who is still in court with the NFL after suing the league in 2021, is not seen as a realistic option for the head coaching job in New York. ESPN reported on Nov. 20 that Schoen's early list of candidates includes Kansas City Chiefs  defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo,  Indianapolis Colts  defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and former Raiders coach Antonio Pierce.