Giants name Wilson Week 1 starter as Dart eyes early role

The New York Giants have designated veteran Russell Wilson their Week 1 starter but remain poised to pivot if early results falter, a decision that leaves the franchise balancing short‑term experience with a fast‑arriving rookie prospect and persistent offensive line concerns. Head coach Brian Daboll confirmed Wilson as the starter after training camp, while signaling that first‑round rookie Jaxson Dart will be developed behind him and could be inserted sooner than planned if necessary.

Daboll said the team is guided by past lessons about quarterbacks’ development and timing, noting, "Some young quarterbacks werent going to play and then a guy gets hurt or whatever it may be. We alter that daily." The coach and the front office view a patient rollout for Dart as ideal. Dart impressed in the preseason, completing 68.1 percent of his passes for 372 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions, and compiled a 113.08 passer rating, according to preseason statistics. Teammates praised his poise; receiver WanDale Robinson said, "Hes got some moxie to him," and Dart himself said he will be ready "whenever my number is called."

Still, the Giants have made protection of Wilson a central...