Giants Rookie QB Jaxson Dart Exits with Concussion in Win Over Bears

The New York Giants appeared on their way to a much-needed win against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, but the mood shifted abruptly when rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart left the game in the fourth quarter to be evaluated for a concussion. The Giants were leading 17–10 when veteran backup Russell Wilson replaced him under center, signaling trouble for the first-year starter.

Fox sideline reporter Pam Oliver first noted Dart’s evaluation, with NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero confirming that the rookie was undergoing concussion testing. Later reports from Art Stapleton of NorthJersey.com confirmed the diagnosis—Dart had indeed suffered a concussion and would not return. It marked another frustrating chapter in a season already riddled with injuries for the Giants’ offense.

Before his exit, Dart had been a central figure in New York’s offensive production, rushing for both of the team’s first-half touchdowns. Ironically, it was another designed run that ended his day prematurely. His willingness to take on defenders—while electrifying—has also made him vulnerable to hits that could jeopardize his availability moving forward.

As Wilson led the offense for the remainder of the game, the focus shifted from the score to the rookie’s health. The Giants’ staff and fans alike were left holding their breath, knowing Dart’s medical history and the significance of another concussion at this stage in his young career.

1. History of Head Injuries Raises Red Flags

Sunday’s incident wasn’t Dart’s first brush with concussion protocol. The Ole Miss product has already dealt with multiple head injuries early in his professional career, forcing him out of games on several occasions. The most infamous episode occurred earlier this season when head coach Brian Daboll and running back Cam Skattebo entered the medical tent to check on Dart, resulting in fines for violating league protocol. That history adds gravity to the latest setback. For a player whose game is built around mobility and aggressiveness, repeated head injuries present a troubling long-term concern. Dart’s ability to protect himself—particularly through proper sliding technique—has become a point of emphasis for coaches but remains an area of inconsistency. Daboll and the medical staff will now have to navigate the delicate balance between protecting their young quarterback’s future and giving him the playing time he needs to develop. Given the team’s record and lack of postseason prospects, most expect the Giants to take a cautious approach. The organization has been here before. New York’s recent seasons have been marred by high-profile injuries, particularly on offense, forcing constant lineup changes and stunting the team’s chemistry. Dart’s latest injury only deepens those struggles.

2. Offensive Injuries Continue to Derail Giants’ Progress

The Giants’ offensive unit has endured a brutal stretch of bad luck this season. Star rookie wideout Malik Nabers tore his ACL in Week 4, just as his chemistry with Dart was beginning to show promise. In Week 8, dynamic running back Cam Skattebo dislocated his ankle, ending his season prematurely. Now, with Dart sidelined once again, New York’s core trio of offensive playmakers has effectively been dismantled. These setbacks have left head coach Brian Daboll scrambling to piece together an attack that can compete in a tough NFC East. The team entered Sunday’s game with a 2–7 record, far removed from playoff contention. Despite that, the Giants displayed grit in their performance against the Bears, leaning on a balanced ground game and a disciplined defensive effort. Russell Wilson, pressed into service after Dart’s injury, managed the game efficiently and helped preserve the lead down the stretch. Still, the emotional weight of yet another injury loomed large over the locker room postgame. Players expressed both relief over the victory and concern for their quarterback’s health. Team officials emphasized that Dart’s recovery would take priority in the coming weeks. With the postseason out of reach, there’s little incentive to rush him back into action before he’s fully cleared.

3. Looking Ahead: Prioritizing Health Over Results

The Giants’ next matchup—a home game against the Green Bay Packers—will likely see Wilson start if Dart remains in concussion protocol. For Daboll and his staff, the focus has shifted toward player safety and long-term evaluation rather than short-term results. Given Dart’s injury history, the organization must weigh every precaution before returning him to the field. There’s no denying Dart’s potential. His ability to create plays with his legs has energized an offense that lacked spark early in the season. But the same trait that makes him dynamic has also put him at risk. Coaches have repeatedly urged him to slide more frequently to avoid unnecessary hits, advice that could prove crucial for his longevity in the league. The Giants’ medical and coaching staff will monitor his recovery closely while reevaluating how to better protect their quarterbacks going forward. With the team’s playoff hopes virtually extinguished, the final stretch of the season may become more about player development and health management than chasing wins. For Giants fans, the hope is simple—that Dart’s latest injury is not another turning point in a season already defined by setbacks. His long-term health and growth remain the franchise’s most valuable priorities.