New York moved decisively on Wednesday: interim coach Mike Kafka named Jameis Winston the Giants’ starter and promoted tight ends coach Tim Kelly to offensive coordinator, a series of changes prompted by Jaxson Dart’s placement in concussion protocol. The move comes with Kafka still calling plays while reshaping the quarterback room. The decision reshuffles veteran roles and places Winston into a Week 11 start at MetLife Stadium against Green Bay, signaling urgency for a 2–8 team hunting stability and direction now.
Giants Start Veteran Jameis Winston But Mike Kafka Retains Play-Calling to Steady Team
New York Giants Jameis Winston
Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston (19) celebrates with running back Devin Singletary (26) after a play during the second half against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
With Dart sidelined by concussion protocol, Kafka turned to a veteran who has started 87 NFL games and carries a 36–51 record as a starter. The logic is that when the margin for error is thin, experience matters.
Kafka framed the decision as confidence in a veteran presence. He framed Winston as a steadying influence and kept the play-calling duties for himself while elevating Kelly to the coordinator title. That separation of roles signals Kafka’s desire to reorganize structure without radical schematic change. Put simply, Kafka wants leadership on the field and continuity in the booth.
Winston’s contract situation matters here. He arrived on a two-year, $8 million deal and has been the emergency option in every game this season. Now he steps into a Week 11 assignment against a Packers defense that ranks fifth in yards allowed. That’s a tough first test. The Giants are 2–8 and need immediate signs of competence.
Kafka emphasized trust in Winston’s readiness and leadership before the team’s Week 11 game. He pointed to preparation, mentorship, and daily reps as reasons for the move.Full quote: “He’ll do a great job. I have a lot of confidence in Jameis.”
Winston responded with gratitude and focus, stressing opportunity over circumstance. He framed the start as an opportunity to earn a chance to lead and focus on fundamentals.Full quote: “I’ve been waiting on this moment, man. … I’m extremely grateful. I choose to focus on what’s true, and that’s my mentality, that’s my opportunity, being able to lead this team, and that’s my action.”
Russell Wilson’s role now shifts to backup. Wilson’s one-year, $10.5 million deal runs through season’s end. Jaxson Dart has shown promise (17 total touchdowns across seven starts), but concussion concerns force caution. Kafka’s choices are tactical and medical decisions blended, and they set up a pivotal Sunday at MetLife that could define Kafka’s early tenure.