Jaxson Dart Holds Giants' Future: 'I Want to Be the Best QB in the World'

As the 2026 NFL season kicks off on September 13, the New York Giants find themselves at a crossroads, with second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart at the center of it all. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Giants' resurgence hinges on Dart's development, and the young signal-caller is embracing the challenge with a bold declaration: 'I want to be the best quarterback in the world.'

John Harbaugh: The Catalyst for Change

When John Harbaugh took the helm as head coach, he brought instant credibility to a franchise that had languished for over a decade. 'Everything starts with John Harbaugh,' said an NFC East analyst on the 'NFC East Mixtape' podcast. 'He brought culture, leadership, and professionalism that this organization badly needed.' But as Harbaugh himself admitted in a sitdown with former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, Dart is 'even more talented than I thought he was.' The coach praised Dart's pocket presence, downfield vision, and ability to extend plays, adding, 'He's got a patience and poise about him.'

Can Dart Make the Elite Throws?

Despite the optimism, questions linger about Dart's ceiling as a passer. In his annual quarterback rankings, NBC Sports' Chris Simms placed Dart at No. 22, citing uncertainty about whether he can make the high-level throws that separate elite quarterbacks. 'Dart's got unreal feel and instincts,' Simms told Big Blue View. 'But I don't know if his arm is elite. The top guys—Mahomes, Allen, Burrow, Lamar, Herbert, Williams, Stafford—they make five or six special throws a game. I haven't seen that from Dart yet.'

The Under-Center Experiment

To elevate his game, Dart will operate under center far more in 2026, a stark contrast to his rookie year. The Giants' offense will emphasize play-action from under center, a facet Dart struggled with in 2025, completing just 57.3% of such passes (24th of 26 qualifying QBs, per Pro Football Focus). 'I don't know how much he's done it, but he looks good doing it,' Harbaugh said. 'It disciplines your footwork and enhances everything, even from the gun.' Simms believes this approach suits Dart perfectly, noting that play-action is the best way to generate explosive plays in today's NFL. 'Dart is made for this offense,' Simms said. 'But we'll see if he can make those tight-window throws.'

The Burden of Leadership

Dart's ambition was laid bare in a text to his offensive linemen: 'I want to be the best quarterback in the world.' While that may seem lofty, Simms respects the mindset. 'Your great quarterbacks are wired that way,' he said. 'It puts pressure on himself, but it also shows confidence. I hope it makes guys want to be part of something special.' However, Simms cautions that Dart must protect himself better. 'The best ability is availability,' he said. 'He can't take unnecessary hits. The extra three yards aren't worth his value to the team.'

Sunday Night Lights

Dart will make his first NFL season-opening start on Sunday Night Football against the Dallas Cowboys, a stage he's eagerly anticipated. 'This is the coolest opportunity,' Dart said. 'I feel like I'm not even the same person as last year. I've grown a ton.' With a full offseason as the unquestioned starter, Dart is determined to lead the Giants to new heights. 'Whatever it takes,' he said. 'I want to do something special.' For the Giants, that special something starts with Harbaugh but runs through Dart.