San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh could not conceal his appreciation of NYG rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart before they met in Week 9 at MetLife Stadium. Going back to New York the first time since his Jets shooting, Saleh headlined with glowing words of praise for the young signal-caller as one of the most promising players in the league.
“He’s uber talented. I understand why Daboll went to the blue tent. I would’ve gone too. Kid’s good. I think New York hit on this one big time. This kid is going to be special.”
"He's uber talented. I understand why Daboll went to the blue tent. I would've gone too. Kid's good. I think New York hit on this one big time. This kid is going to be special."
Robert Saleh on Jaxson Dart pic.twitter.com/Jrrwk5DDJF
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) October 30, 2025
Is Jaxson Dart the Giants’ Rookie QB Everyone’s Talking About?
Oct 19, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) looks on during warmups against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) looks on during warmups
against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
When the Giants took Jaxson Dart in the 2025 draft, many questioned whether he could handle the speed of NFL defenses. Eight games in, those doubts have faded. The 22-year-old has transformed a stagnant Giants offense into one of the league’s more dynamic units. Through five starts, Dart has already earned NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month honors for October.
Saleh, who spent four turbulent years as the Jets’ head coach before rejoining the 49ers this offseason, has studied numerous quarterbacks during his time. His detailed assessment showed both respect for Dart’s skill and recognition of Brian Daboll’s offensive design. “He’s dynamic, decisive, and accurate,”Salehsaid. “They’re doing a great job with him. Daboll and [offensive coordinator Mike] Kafka put strain on defenses. And this kid he’s going to be special.”
Dart’s impact is undeniable. The Giants have improved since 03 since the replacement of veteran Daniel Jones, as the team has since won two out of the five games and has averaged above 24 points per game, a vast improvement from the 14.5 average last season. The play-calling style of Daboll, analysts observe, is currently characterized by aggressive play-calling that relies on the improvisation and athleticism of Dart, as the defense is kept guessing each week.
Even opposing coaches have echoed Saleh’s sentiment. 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak, who evaluated Dart during the draft process, described him as “a gamer” with rare competitiveness.
Saleh’s comments quickly stirred conversation among fans online.One post summed it up:“Certainly good coach speak, but he’s not wrong. As for Saleh as Giants HC? Should be in the mix if they go that route.”Otherschimed in with excitement,“He knows‼️” wrote one fan, whileanother called Saleh“another respected coach praising Jaxson Dart.”
Though Saleh’s words were meant as an opponent’s compliment, they captured a broader truth: the Giants’ gamble on Jaxson Dart may have reignited football in New York, and the league is starting to take notice.