Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart slated for season‑ending knee operation
Medical sources tell NFL Network that the New York Giants expect to put Dart on the injured‑reserve list after surgery.
New York – The New York Giants have confirmed that rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart will undergo knee surgery that will end his 2024 campaign, NFL Network reported citing team sources. The procedure is expected to be scheduled within the next few days, after doctors determined that the damage sustained in practice cannot be repaired without an operation.
According to ESPN, the injury was identified during a routine evaluation following a non‑contact drill in which Dart felt a sharp pain in his left knee. Imaging revealed a torn meniscus and possible ligament strain, prompting the medical staff to recommend arthroscopic surgery. The team plans to place Dart on injured reserve, freeing a roster spot for a veteran backup as the Giants chase a playoff berth.
Dart, the 23‑year‑old from Texas A&M, entered the season as the third‑string quarterback after being selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He earned his first NFL snaps in Week 4, completing 12 of 20 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown, showing poise beyond his limited experience. His emergence gave the Giants a glimpse of a potential long‑term solution at the position, a role that has been in flux since the departure of Daniel Jones.
Knee injuries are a common setback for NFL quarterbacks, often requiring six to nine months of rehabilitation before a return to full practice. The league has seen several high‑profile cases, such as Aaron Rodgers and Dak Prescott, whose recoveries reshaped their teams' offseason strategies. For a rookie like Dart, the timeline could affect his development curve, as he will miss crucial repetitions with the first‑team offense and the chance to build chemistry with receivers.
Looking ahead, the Giants are expected to promote a veteran like Mike White or sign a free‑agent backup to stabilize the depth chart. Head coach Brian Daboll emphasized that the team will continue to evaluate its quarterback options while maintaining focus on the run game and defensive improvements. Dart’s health will remain a priority, and the organization hopes the surgery will allow him to return stronger for the 2025 season.
This report is based on original reporting by ESPN. Read the original source →