The New York Giants have made a quarterback change, with Russell Wilson benched in favor of rookie Jaxson Dart, who will take over as the team’s starter this week.
Giants Make New York Giants Quarterback Change
The team will move forward with Jaxson Dart starting quarterback duties, beginning with this week’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Giants selected Dart with the 25th overall pick in the NFL Draft after trading up into the first round to acquire him.
Why Russell Wilson Benched After Three Games
Wilson’s tenure as the starter concludes after just three games with the team. The veteran quarterback signed a one-year, $21 million contract with the Giants during the offseason.
Shared Faith in Giants Locker Room
Wilson helped foster a culture of faith in Giants locker room, holding regular Bible studies with teammates. “We have a lot of guys who are super strong on their faith,” Wilson said. “I’m grateful to be a New York Giant, and I thank God every day for that.“
His successor is also a devout Christian, as Dart is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Dart is the third Mormon quarterback in NFL history.
Revisiting the Russell Wilson Matt Flynn Dynamic
Wilson now finds himself on the opposite side of the Russell Wilson Matt Flynn dynamic he experienced as a rookie in 2012. That year, Wilson, a third-round pick, beat out veteran Matt Flynn for the Seattle Seahawks’ starting job.
Flynn had recently signed a three-year, $26 million contract before being replaced. Wilson subsequently led Seattle to a playoff win in his first year and a Super Bowl victory in 2013.
Jaxson Dart Starting Quarterback Role Begins
Despite the change, Wilson spoke positively of the rookie taking his place. “I think Jaxson is a really good worker. He’s a really good teammate,” Wilson stated.
Wilson added that his focus remains on his commitment to “help the New York Giants win daily.“
