Jaxson Dart vs Russell Wilson: Who Will Start for Giants in Week 7 After Rookie’s Stellar Preseason Performance?

The New York Giants face a brewing quarterback controversy as rookie Jaxson Dart’s stellar preseason performances challenge veteran Russell Wilson’s grip on the starting role. Dart’s poise and aggression have already outshined Wilson in preseason action, completing 78% of passes with two touchdowns compared to Wilson’s conservative stat line.

With the Giants set to face Wilson’s former team, the Denver Broncos, in Week 7, coaches must weigh Dart’s explosive potential against Wilson’s experience. The rookie’s development curve appears steeper than anticipated, turning this preseason battle into a legitimate regular-season dilemma.

Jaxson Dart vs Russell Wilson: Who Will Start for Giants in Week 7 After Rookie’s Stellar Preseason Performance?

The New York Giants’ quarterback situation has become one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2025 NFL preseason. Veteran Russell Wilson, signed to a one-year deal, was expected to be the clear starter, but rookie Jaxson Dart has other plans. In the team’s first preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, Wilson went 6/7 for just 28 yards while Dart showcased poise and playmaking ability that has fans buzzing.

The Giants face the Broncos in Week 7, and if Dart continues outperforming Wilson, this could become a quarterback controversy. Wilson’s leash as the starter may not be long, especially if the team struggles early in the season. The preseason performance gap between the veteran and rookie has already created questions about who gives the Giants the best chance to win.

Wilson’s Decline vs. Dart’s Rise

Wilson’s preseason showing highlighted concerns about his ability to still perform at a high level after being cut by the Broncos. His limited production and conservative play calling stood in stark contrast to Dart’s aggressive, downfield passing that energized the offense. The rookie’s performance wasn’t perfect but showed more potential for creative playmaking.

Remember when Wilson was elite? That deep ball accuracy seems gone. Dart looks hungrier out there.

But you can’t judge everything on one preseason game! Wilson has seen every NFL defense – that experience matters.

Can Jaxson Dart Really Win the Starting Job Before Week 1?

While Dart impressed in Week 1 of the preseason, beating out Wilson before the regular season starts remains unlikely. The Giants signed Wilson to start, and they’ll likely give him that opportunity. However, if Wilson struggles early and Dart continues performing, the coaching staff may be forced to make a change sooner than expected.

The upcoming preseason games will be critical for Dart. If he can build on his strong debut, he could position himself as the clear quarterback of the future and potentially accelerate the timeline for taking over the starting role.

Preseason Performances That Changed QB Battles

History shows that preseason performances can dramatically alter quarterback competitions. Notable examples include:

• Dak Prescott overtaking veteran QBs in Dallas
• Russell Wilson himself winning Seattle’s job as a rookie
• Tom Brady moving up the depth chart after strong 2001 preseason

What Does Russell Wilson Need to Do to Keep His Job?

For Wilson, the path forward is clear but challenging. He needs to show he can still make all the throws and lead the offense effectively. Key areas he must improve:

Wilson’s biggest advantage is his experience. If he can turn back the clock even slightly, the job should be his.

But at his age, how much does he really have left? The offense seems to respond better to Dart’s energy.

How Will the Giants Handle the QB Situation Against Denver in Week 7?

The Week 7 matchup against Wilson’s former team, the Denver Broncos, adds another layer to this quarterback drama. By this point in the season, several scenarios could play out:

1. Wilson establishes himself as the clear starter with strong early play
2. Dart takes over after early season struggles from Wilson
3. A timeshare develops between the two quarterbacks
4. Injuries force the team’s hand one way or another

The Denver game could serve as a benchmark for Wilson’s redemption or Dart’s coming-out party. Facing the team that essentially gave up on Wilson would be a psychologically significant moment for both quarterbacks.

What Other Rookies Are Making Preseason Noise Like Jaxson Dart?

While Dart has been impressive, he’s not the only rookie turning heads this preseason. Other notable standout performers include:

• TreVeyon Henderson (RB, Patriots) – Showing burst and receiving skills
• Abdul Carter (LB, Giants) – Strong pass rushing from fellow Giants rookie
• Ricky Pearsall (WR, 49ers) – Developing chemistry with Brock Purdy

What sets Dart apart is that he’s competing for what could become a starting quarterback position, giving his preseason performance extra significance compared to players who are locked into rotational roles.

Is There A Chance We See BOTH QBs Play in Week 1?

The most intriguing possibility is the Giants using both quarterbacks situationally in the regular season. This approach would allow them to:

• Leverage Wilson’s experience in key situations
• Utilize Dart’s mobility and arm talent in specific packages
• Ease the rookie into NFL action without full starter pressure
• Keep defenses guessing with different looks

However, quarterback rotations rarely work long-term in the NFL. Typically, teams prefer to establish a clear starter for offensive continuity. The Giants will likely try to avoid a platoon system unless forced into it by circumstances.

Remember when the Saints tried this with Hill and Winston? It lasted about three weeks before Winston took over.

But the league is evolving! More teams are using situational QBs. Maybe the Giants could make it work with their contrasting styles.