NFL: Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants
Sep 13, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) drops back to pass against the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
The New York Giants went from an NFL Week 1 high to immediate Week 2 pain. Monday Night Football wasn’t kind to the Giants after Jaxson Dart‘s first-quarter knee injury.
However, the news is potentially getting worse as the updates pour in about New York’s starting signal caller. ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reveals that Dart could be out for the remainder of the season if the Giants opt for surgery on his injured knee.
The Giants are currently slated to go with veteran QB Jameis Winston for as long as Dart is sidelined. Although, New York could explore other options if head coach John Harbaugh isn’t convinced with the former Florida State college football national champion.
MORE: New York Giants staring down worst-case scenario after Jaxson Dart update
Can Giants survive with Jameis?
NFL: Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart celebrates following a win against the Dallas Cowboys. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Winston’s in his second season with the Giants after appearing in three games in 2025 when Dart was sidelined. The 2015 first overall pick has bounced around the NFL since the Tampa Bay Buccaneers parted ways with the QB.
The former NFL Rookie of the Year spent time with the New Orleans Saints and Cleveland Browns after his five seasons in Tampa Bay.
However, the 32-year-old is well respected within the league and considered to be a top backup option. Last year, Winston passed for 567 yards and two touchdowns with the Giants.
Winston stepped in during Week 2’s 28-6 loss against the Los Angeles Rams after Dart went down. New York is currently 1-1 in 2026 after defeating the Dallas Cowboys, 28-20, in their opening matchup.
Here are several other players New York could target in 2026 if the NFC East franchise needs an offensive boost.
MORE: 2026 NFL MVP rankings after Week 2, Tyler Shough skyrockets
Other viable Jaxson Dart replacements
NFL: New York Giants at Los Angeles Rams
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart warms up before a game agaimst the Los Angeles Rams. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Mac Jones – San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco backup has been brilliant in support of Brock Purdy when he’s missed games in recent seasons. New York would be smart to give the 49ers a phone call considering Jones would have the chance to start for a long period of time.
Joe Flacco – Cincinnati Bengals
Flacco’s been serviceable for years even after leaving the Baltimore Ravens. The former Super Bowl champion stepped in admirably for Joe Burrow in 2025, but the Bengals star appears to be back to full strength in the first few weeks of this season.
MORE: Assessing Giants’ playoff chances with Jameis Winston
Derek Carr – Retired
Carr stated in recent months that he’d consider an NFL return if the right situation came about. The New Orleans Saints still have his rights though, so the Giants would likely need to send the NFC South franchise a draft pick.