Giants QB Dart ruled out for 2026 season with knee injury

Jaxson Dart, the 23‑year‑old quarterback for the New York Giants, suffered a severe knee injury on the opening drive of Monday night’s game against the Los Angeles Rams and will miss the remainder of the 2026 NFL season. The injury occurred when his left leg bent awkwardly after contact with two defenders, prompting an initial assessment that suggested a medial collateral ligament (MCL) issue. Subsequent MRI results confirmed damage to the MCL, posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and meniscus, leading head coach John Harbaugh to announce that Dart is out for the regular season. In Dart’s absence, veteran Jameis Winston will assume the starting quarterback role beginning Sunday’s matchup with Tennessee.

The loss of Dart represents a significant setback for Harbaugh’s inaugural season, which began with a home victory over Dallas in Week 1. The Giants now face a daunting stretch of five games against opponents that collectively hold a 2‑8 record, further complicating their playoff aspirations. Winston, who has a 3‑9 record in 12 NFL starts since 2024, will be tasked with stabilizing an offense that has already endured injuries to key players, including edge rusher Brian Burns, who sprained his left ankle, and left tackle Andrew Thomas, who left the Rams game with a groin strain.

Practice reports indicated that only Winston and practice‑squad quarterback Jake Haener were present for the open portion of the session, with Haener having joined midway through training camp after stints with New Orleans and the journeyman Brandon Allen. Meanwhile, wide receiver Malik Nabers, who recently dislocated his shoulder, returned to the unpadded practice, and other starters remained active despite recent injuries. The Giants must now rely on depth and adjustments as they navigate the remainder of the season without their projected franchise quarterback.

⚡ Effects Interpreter