The 2025 season has been a grind for the New York Giants, and their 3-13 record entering Week 18 reflects just how rough things have been. With losses piling up, speculation has intensified around the team’s future at quarterback – specifically, whether the Giants should consider moving on from Jaxson Dart and resetting the position in the 2026 NFL Draft.
That idea didn’t sit well with franchise legend Phil Simms.
Speaking on his Simms Complete podcast, Simms didn’t mince words when addressing the trade chatter surrounding Dart.
“I don’t even know what to say because I don’t… That’s the dumbest a- thing ever”
Rumors and craziness surround the Giants
His comments came shortly after New York’s surprising Week 17 blowout win, a game that had massive draft implications. Both teams entered the matchup at 2-13, riding nine-game losing streaks, with the loser all but locking up the No. 1 overall pick in 2026. Instead of tanking, the Giants played to win – and rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart delivered.
Dart accounted for two touchdowns and led the Giants to a 34-10 victory, a performance that reignited belief inside the organization and backed up Simms’ confidence in the young passer.
“Jaxson Dart was, I thought, one of the best-looking football players on the field in that game,” Simms said. “His movement – I thought he looked faster than I’ve seen him all year. Of course, his arm… accuracy, power, all that stuff. He can make all the throws.”
At just 22 years old, Dart has quietly been one of the Giants’ few steady pieces in an otherwise turbulent season. After taking over the starting role, he posted an 89.8 passer rating, throwing for 2,042 yards and 13 touchdowns while limiting mistakes to just five interceptions across 13 games.
Simms believes that’s only the beginning.
“I would be shocked if it doesn’t get better in two ways. I expect him to be more dynamic running the football next year… and I would be disappointed if I don’t see a difference in the throwing too”
2026 Draft looms large for the Giants
Despite Simms’ firm stance, the Giants‘ draft position continues to fuel debate. Sitting in prime position for the 2026 NFL Draft, New York could have access to the top quarterback prospect available – and one name keeps surfacing: Indiana star and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport acknowledged that the Giants will explore every option.
“The Giants could have the No. 1 pick,” Rapoport said. “Expect them to evaluate all options, including looking at Fernando Mendoza, before they make a decision.”
Dart, however, isn’t distracted by the noise. When asked about reports linking New York to Mendoza, he stayed focused.
“No, I did not. I’m going to continue to play my ball”
He doubled down on his belief in the organization’s future.
“I know I’m going to be here for a very long time… we have a bright future.”
After a brutal midseason stretch – including a low point in Week 16 – Dart’s rebound performance has reset the conversation. Now, as the offseason approaches, the Giants face a defining decision at quarterback – one that could shape the franchise for years to come.
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