Overview
- Late August coverage shows the Giants have designated second‑year Jaxson Dart as their projected 2026 starter while coach John Harbaugh publicly defended him after a preseason hit and concussion evaluation.
- Harbaugh told local media he is still undecided about playing starters in the preseason finale because he is balancing the value of live reps against the risk of injury to key players.
- Critics including Sheil Kapadia have questioned the mix of offensive coaches Harbaugh hired—Matt Nagy, Brian Callahan and Greg Roman—calling them a risky 'brain trust' while supporters say their experience is meant to temper Dart’s instincts and protect him.
- Local columnists and team observers have urged limited in‑game reps for Dart to build timing with receivers and game communication, while the Giants have adjusted practice plans to emphasize under‑center work, quicker reads and moving pockets.
- Veteran Jameis Winston is working as a mentor and Harbaugh’s player‑first approach is shaping the locker room, but league evaluators say Dart remains promising yet unproven and must demonstrate consistency once the regular season starts.