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Giants Eye Jaxon Dart Amid Quarterback Uncertainty

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, April 9th 2026 at 22:13 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

East Rutherford, NJ - April 10, 2026 - The New York Giants are deep in draft preparations, and the most pressing question mark remains at the quarterback position. While Daniel Jones remains under contract, his fluctuating performance and lingering questions about his long-term viability have forced General Manager Marcus Thompson and Head Coach Evelyn Reed to cast a wide net in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Emerging as a significant name in their evaluations is Jaxon Dart, the athletic but currently developing quarterback for the Chicago Bears.

The situation in New York is complex. Jones, coming off a 2025 season marked by inconsistent play and a worrying injury history, isn't a lock to remain the starter beyond the 2026 season. While the Giants haven't publicly signaled a complete loss of faith, the subtle shift in rhetoric - emphasizing competition and the need for consistent quarterback play - suggests a willingness to explore alternatives. This willingness has now extended to seriously considering a first-round investment in a quarterback, specifically Jaxon Dart.

Dart, a projected first-round pick, brings a dynamic skillset that has caught the eye of the Giants' coaching staff. His athleticism is undeniable; scouts consistently praise his ability to extend plays with his legs and create opportunities outside the pocket. This mobility is a key trait the Giants are looking for, believing it aligns with Reed's offensive scheme which emphasizes quick reads and utilizing the quarterback's legs when necessary. However, that athleticism is currently coupled with notable inconsistencies in accuracy and a need for refinement in his decision-making.

The Bears' Role and Potential Trade Scenarios

The fact that Dart is currently on the Bears' roster adds another layer to the story. Chicago drafted Dart in the late first round of the 2024 draft, hoping he'd be their franchise quarterback. However, a rocky sophomore season in 2025 - marred by turnovers and struggles reading defenses - has put his future with the team in question. Several analysts predict the Bears will be open to trading Dart if the right offer presents itself. This presents the Giants with a potential opportunity: a trade-up within the draft, or even a direct acquisition of Dart before the draft even begins.

A trade-up would likely require the Giants to package their sixth overall pick (obtained in the recent trade with the Carolina Panthers) along with additional draft capital. A straight acquisition would involve a significant package of picks and potentially a promising young player. Both scenarios are being discussed internally.

Beyond Dart: The Landscape of the 2026 QB Class The Giants aren't putting all their eggs in the Dart basket. The 2026 quarterback class is considered relatively deep, with several other intriguing prospects. University of California's Ben Carter is generating significant buzz as a pro-style quarterback with excellent accuracy and pocket presence. Then there's Oklahoma State's Kai Ito, a dual-threat quarterback whose arm strength is a major draw. However, both Carter and Ito have their own question marks; Carter is seen as lacking the athleticism the Giants covet, while Ito's accuracy isn't on par with Dart's potential.

Coaching Staff's Familiarity and the Pac-12 Influence

Coach Reed and her offensive coordinator, former USC assistant James Holden, are particularly familiar with Dart's skillset, having closely followed his collegiate career in the Pac-12. This existing knowledge gives them a head start in evaluating whether his raw potential can be unlocked at the NFL level. They understand his strengths and, more importantly, are acutely aware of his weaknesses, allowing them to assess how quickly he could adapt to a professional offense.

The Pressure to Find a Franchise QB The Giants' urgency to find a long-term solution at quarterback is understandable. They've spent years searching for a consistent performer at the position since the departure of Eli Manning. The franchise is acutely aware that a stable quarterback is essential for sustained success in the modern NFL. The front office is under pressure from ownership and a passionate fanbase to make the right decision in the draft, and the possibility of adding a player with Dart's upside is proving too tempting to ignore. The coming weeks will be critical as the Giants conduct thorough evaluations, pro days, and private workouts, all in pursuit of the quarterback who will lead them into the future.