The New York Giants are making a definitive pivot in Week 4, turning the offense over to rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart and handing full play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Mike Kafka.
After three straight losses with veteran Russell Wilson under center, head coach Brian Daboll has decided it’s time for a change on multiple fronts.
Though Daboll is an offensive-minded coach, he’s stepping away from the headset and putting full trust in Kafka, who reportedly earns around $3 million a year, making him one of the league’s top-paid coordinators.
“No, I have confidence in Mike,” Daboll told reporters when asked if he would resume calling plays. “Those guys have met with Jaxson [Dart] along with me, and they’ve met separately. We’re going to do everything we can to help Jaxson be as good as he can play.”
Kafka echoed that support, praising Dart for his early composure and control. He said the rookie “did everything he needed to do in terms of operation and execution on the field.”
Still, Kafka was measured when discussing Dart’s future, suggesting his development will be a process. “If it’s positive, I think it definitely helps,” Kafka said. “If it’s negative, it’s just how you approach it.”
The challenge ahead won’t be easy. Dart is set to face a tough opponent in the Los Angeles Chargers and their stout defence. This will be a critical test of Dart’s decision-making and poise under pressure.
Kafka and Dart: New faces and new direction
The move raises serious questions about Wilson’s role going forward. Despite hopes that the veteran could lead while Dart developed, Wilson’s early-season play has been far from encouraging. Aside from one strong performance against Dallas, he’s looked hesitant and inaccurate.
The low point came in Kansas City, where Wilson threw a ball into the tunnel during a red-zone sequence and ended the drive with a throwaway on fourth down. The Giants lost 22-9 in that game and fell to 0-3 on the season.
In contrast, Dart has checked every box since arriving in New York. From preseason to training camp, he’s shown sharp decision-making, strong ball placement, and a level of mobility that gives the Giants new offensive possibilities. His athleticism could open up Kafka’s playbook in much the same way it did when Kafka worked with Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City.
Daboll’s choice to sit Wilson and elevate Dart suggests the team is all-in on the rookie, at least for now. Whether Wilson remains on the roster or seeks a new opportunity remains unclear.
But what’s evident is that the Giants are hoping Dart can inject life into one of the NFL’s most stagnant offenses. With Kafka calling the shots and Dart under center, the Giants are betting big on change.
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