Jaxson Dart is out of concussion protocol and expected to be back under center for the New York Giants.
The Giants said Thursday their rookie quarterback has cleared the protocol and is on track to start Monday night when they visit the New England Patriots.
Dart missed the past two games after sustaining the injury at Chicago in Week 10.
New York lost to the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions with Jameis Winston at quarterback. Winston completed 37 of 65 passes for 567 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions, and he tallied a rushing and a receiving score.
The Giants (2-10) have lost six straight and are already eliminated from playoff contention. The question becomes whether the Giants’ coaching staff will rein in Dart’s running.
The 2025 first-round pick has been evaluated for a concussion four times this year (including preseason) and, under former coach Brian Daboll, he led the league in designed QB runs.
Interim coach Mike Kafka was calling plays even when Daboll was in charge, but reporting since Daboll’s firing suggests the team will employ a more cautious approach when Dart returns. That could mean fewer keepers at the goal line and less exposure in blowout situations.
Prior to the injury, Dart completed 62.7% passes for 1,417 yards, 10 touchdowns and three interceptions in nine games (seven starts). He added 317 rushing yards on 57 carries with seven more scores.
Injuries remain a factor beyond quarterback. The Giants didn’t practice Thursday but released estimated statuses, with Dart projected as a full participant.
All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (elbow) was listed as a projected DNP after aggravating his surgically repaired arm. Linebackers Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder) and Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (neck/knee) were also projected as nonparticipants.
