The New York Giants are on the brink of a decision that could send shockwaves through the entire NFL, with the future of quarterback Jaxson Dart now under serious scrutiny.
Rapoport's Revelation: A New Quarterback in the Frame?
According to a significant report from NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, the Giants' front office is prepared to evaluate all its options if it secures the first overall pick in the 2026 Draft. This includes a serious look at Indiana Hoosiers quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner, Fernando Mendoza.
"The Giants could have the No 1 pick. Expect them to evaluate all options, including looking at Fernando Mendoza before they make a decision on how they are going to proceed, if they have this pick," Rapoport stated on Sunday, December 28, 2025.
This revelation directly challenges the notion that Dart, who took over from Russell Wilson in Week 4, is the unquestioned cornerstone for the franchise's rebuild.
Dart's Rollercoaster Rookie Season
The 22-year-old Dart was drafted after the Giants traded back into the first round of the 2025 Draft, having initially selected pass rusher Abdul Carter with the third overall pick. The plan was for him to learn behind veteran Wilson, but growing fan unrest saw Dart promoted to starter much earlier than anticipated.
Despite being a rare bright spot in a miserable 2-13 season that saw head coach Brian Daboll fired in November, Dart's performances have not been enough to secure unanimous backing for the long term. The Giants' position near the top of the draft order, solidified after their game against the Las Vegas Raiders, has forced a strategic rethink.
Offseason Dominoes and Alternative Trade Scenarios
Pursuing a new quarterback would represent a dramatic pivot. Many analysts believed a top-three pick would be used as valuable trade capital to acquire talent for other positions, building a team around the promising Dart.
Furthermore, the potential quarterback market is crowded. Tua Tagovailoa's time with the Miami Dolphins appears over, while questions linger over stars like Joe Burrow in Cincinnati and even Lamar Jackson in Baltimore, though acquiring such established names would require a monumental trade package.
The Giants do have some building blocks for a 2026 resurgence. Star wide receiver Malik Nabers, who tore his ACL in Week 3, is expected back for Week 1 next season. Running back Cam Skattebo also showed promise before a devastating leg injury ended his campaign.
The Giants will conclude their season on January 4 against the Dallas Cowboys, after which the critical evaluation of their quarterback position will begin in earnest, setting the course for their franchise's future.
