Why Jaxson Dart was seemingly mad with Giants at the start of training camp

Throughout 2026, much has been said and written about how second-year New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart needs to do a better job of protecting himself in games this coming fall. 

Thus, some have seemingly forgotten that Dart is learning a different offense and working with a different coaching staff for a second straight summer. While speaking with reporters on Monday, Giants wide receiver Darnell Mooney was asked about "the biggest strides" Dart has made since training camp got underway.

Jaxson Dart was not thrilled with certain teammates at the start of training camp

"I would say he was pretty p----- off with a couple of things at the beginning because a lot of guys are trying to figure out everything," Mooney said about Dart, per the Giants' website. "We're trying to learn the playbook. Now that the guys know the playbook, everything's running a little bit more smoother. He's not having to help everyone out. We can help him out. He's calming down more so that he can just play quarterback. He doesn't have to help out everybody so much."

Those running the Giants are clearly hoping that Dart will make a major leap while working under new head coach John Harbaugh and new offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. Certain stats indicate that Dart was far from elite as a rookie, but it should be remembered that he only made 12 starts. 

Of course, he missed two November games while he was in the concussion protocol, and he was checked for a concussion on five different occasions from the preseason through Week 18. That said, Mooney's comments suggest Dart is both mastering the playbook and learning when to slide in certain instances. 

Darnell Mooney discussed working relationship with Jaxson Dart

For a piece published on Tuesday, NFL insider Michael Silver of The Athletic detailed how Giants players "were starving for direction" before the hiring of Harbaugh this past winter. It seems like Dart is doing all he can to ensure team chemistry won't be a problem for the 2026 Giants. 

"We have a great relationship," Mooney added about Dart. "Smooth. We had a nice little event out in Vegas. Got to hang out with each other a lot there. Jax is a cool guy, man. I'm happy to be a receiver for him."