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Jordan Raanan
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — New York Giants signal-caller Jaxson Dart was medically cleared from concussion protocol on Thursday, paving the way for his potential appearance next Monday night versus the New England Patriots.
Dart sat out the previous two contests resulting from a concussion sustained on Nov. 9 in the matchup against the Chicago Bears. Jameis Winston assumed the starting role in his absence.
Dart, an early-round draft selection from this year, has been the starter in seven games. He has accumulated 10 passing touchdowns and an additional seven rushing touchdowns.
The first-year player is returning to action following a full practice session for the first time on Wednesday. He had limited participation in the prior week’s practice sessions.
According to an ESPN source, Dart expressed his disappointment at being unable to participate in the recent game in Detroit. He participated in early-week drills with the anticipation of playing, but ultimately did not receive medical clearance.
Dart, having undergone concussion evaluations in four of his last eight games stretching back to the preseason, was the initial quarterback in Wednesday’s practice. This seemed to suggest his impending return.
“Yes, we are proceeding with the same strategy as last week,” interim head coach Mike Kafka mentioned on Wednesday. “We plan to continue that approach this week and closely monitor Jaxson’s progress through the concussion protocol.”
The positive update emerged on Thursday following Dart’s consultation with an independent neurologist, marking the final procedural step.
Dart’s playing style has been a recurring subject of discussion within the Giants organization. The coaching staff aimed to preserve his aggressive approach.
Brian Daboll’s departure occurred the day after Dart’s concussion. Kafka has maintained his role as the offensive play-caller throughout the season.
Several teammates conveyed to ESPN in recent weeks their attempts to encourage Dart to execute slides and seek safety near the sidelines when feasible. They acknowledge the risks associated with sustaining similar types of hits.
Dart has been absorbing approximately 10 hits per game.
“The most vital attribute is availability,” Winston stated recently.
The Giants (2-10) are heading into Monday night following six consecutive losses. They are currently experiencing a franchise-worst 12-game losing streak when playing on the road.
New York will have a week off following this game. The Giants expressed optimism earlier this week that Dart would be available to play in the prime-time competition.
“Indeed, we continue to have the same discussions as in any given week,” Winston remarked on Wednesday. “I believe he is fully invested in that perspective. I mean, last week, he demonstrated a strong desire to play. However, the NFL adheres to a stringent protocol, which dictated the outcome. I was appreciative, but simultaneously, I sympathized with his situation, recognizing his level of effort and preparation. I assured him of my support. Yet, we are maintaining our established practices. He remains dedicated to his work, and we anticipate that he will recover this week and contribute to securing a victory.”
