The New York Giants have no doubts this summer about who their starting quarterback will be. Head coach Brian Daboll said on Wednesday that Russell Wilson is the clear first choice as training camp begins.
“These guys will compete, but Russ is our starter,” Daboll said.
The Giants signed Wilson and Jameis Winston during the off-season and drafted rookie Jaxson Dart in the first round. Tommy DeVito is also on the roster.
The team will focus on developing Dart, who was picked 25th overall after the Giants traded back into the first round. When Dart plays will depend on his progress and Wilson’s performance.
Ideally, Dart might not see much game time.
“There’s value in sitting and learning from experienced players,” said Giants general manager Joe Schoen. “But if the coaches think he’s ready, that’s their call.”
The Giants’ coaching staff have seen both approaches before. Offensive coordinator Mike Kafka helped manage Patrick Mahomes’ rookie year, when Mahomes started only one game. Schoen and Daboll were also in Buffalo when Josh Allen took over partway through the 2018 season.
Dart starts behind Wilson. On the first day of camp, he mostly took second-string reps and completed 3 of 7 passes, with his first thrown interception returned for a touchdown. He did get one first-team snap.
Wilson took all reps with the starters and stays focused on being the team leader.
“My mindset is to be the best every day,” Wilson said. “I want to help our team win by lifting our practice, play, and mentality with a championship mindset.”
Wilson, a 10-time Pro Bowler, signed a one-year deal and quickly became a respected leader during the off-season. He ran extra throwing sessions with teammates in San Diego, Los Angeles, and Atlanta.
Young receiver Malik Nabers, who shares a locker next to Wilson, already sees the benefits. Nabers caught three touchdowns during Wednesday’s practice.
“I’ve watched Russ for a long time,” Nabers said. “Getting great passes and seeing his leadership motivates me to get better. Having him next to me is like an extra mentor. Hopefully, we can do big things this year.”
Wilson played last season for the Pittsburgh Steelers, starting 11 games and throwing for 2,482 yards with 16 touchdowns.
The Giants started last season with Daniel Jones as their quarterback but benched and later released him.
This offseason, the Giants rebuilt their quarterback room by signing Winston and Wilson and drafting Dart.
Wilson was signed to be the starter, while Jones was given one last chance last year to prove himself.
Photo: Ishika Samant/Getty Images
