When the New York Giants signed Russell Wilson, they added not just a seasoned veteran but a leader expected to shape a changing QB landscape, especially alongside rookie Jaxson Dart, the 25th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
And as OTAs and minicamp concluded, Wilson didn’t hold back in sharing his confidence and his respect for Dart, offering a clear and supportive message.
During a recent interview, Wilson was asked whether Dart‘s arrival affected his mindset. Without hesitation he replied: “It doesn’t change anything at all.”
Wilson elaborated on his philosophy: “The biggest thing for me is just being my best every day, leading. I always think about just leading everybody, just leading every room, every moment, every time I get to step between the white lines and the opportunity of that.”
In those few words, the veteran quarterback crystallized his mindset: competition exists, but leadership and accountability come first.
A veteran mentor in a shifting QB room
Wilson‘s sentiment extends beyond cocksure bravado-it reflects the role he’s embraced in New York’s QB room.
He’s brought order with added drills and structure, influencing how the offense prepares in substantial ways. He’s also encouraged a culture of openness, communicating freely with Dart and Jameis Winston, sharing thoughts, approaches, and insights. As Wilson noted about his mentorship approach: “I’m a big believer in communicating out loud, just, ‘Here’s what I’m thinking, here’s what I’m saying.’ You don’t hold any information.”
That philosophy was on full display during rookie minicamp. Dart, who once wore a Wilson Seahawks jersey as a kid, is now working alongside his childhood idol. He remarked:
“They’ve been great… I was wearing Russ’ jersey with the Seahawks when he won the Super Bowl. These guys have been people that I’ve really looked up to. I hold them in the highest regard.”
Early season framework: Establishing roles and expectations
With Wilson inked to a one-year deal worth up to $21 million, the Giants clearly see him as the starter for now. Head coach Brian Daboll echoed that intention, stating that Wilson will lead the offense while Dart continues to develop.
But the groundwork is being laid for a long-term future, where Dart could eventually take over when ready.
GM Joe Schoen emphasized Dart‘s placement behind two seasoned quarterbacks as beneficial. “So he’s going to have to prepare like he’s going to have to play,” Schoen said. “But… sitting behind two consummate pros already will be beneficial for him.”
That environment-veteran leadership guiding youthful potential-echoes across the organization. Safety Jevon Holland praised both Wilson and Winston, highlighting their consistent routines and leadership that elevate Dart‘s readiness.
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