Is Jaxson Dart Playing Today? Injury Update and Latest Status Explained

Jaxson Dart will not play today as he remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol. The New York Giants ruled out the rookie quarterback for their Week 12 matchup against the Detroit Lions. The update confirms that Jameis Winston will start again while Dart continues his recovery.

The Giants made the decision after Dart progressed only to the non-contact stage of the league’s protocol. Interim head coach Mike Kafka said the team will not take risks with a head injury. That leaves New York preparing for another game without its QB1.

Jaxson Dart Injury Update: Where His Recovery Stands Now

Dart entered the NFL’s concussion protocol during the Giants’ Week 10 game against the Chicago Bears. He took a hard hit late in the third quarter during a rushing attempt. He left the game soon after and was evaluated multiple times before being ruled out.

He remained in the protocol throughout Week 11 and missed the loss to the Green Bay Packers. Winston started in his place and managed the offense well until a late interception ended the team’s comeback hopes. According to statements from the Giants, Dart returned to practice on Nov. 19 in a limited, non-contact role. That is the fourth step in the league’s five-step protocol.

The NFL’s concussion protocol includes symptom-limited activity, aerobic exercise, football-specific work, non-contact drills, and full football clearance. Dart must complete all steps without symptoms before he is allowed to return. He has not yet reached the final stage, which requires full participation in at least one practice.

Trusted sources such as AP and USA TODAY reported that Dart appeared close to clearing the protocol but was not ready for Week 12. His inability to reach full contact status made his availability impossible for today’s game. The Giants are expected to evaluate him again early in Week 13.

The team’s quarterback depth chart now lists Dart as out. Winston is the starter, with Russell Wilson serving as the backup. Wilson struggled earlier in the year before being replaced by the veteran Winston. Dart became the starter after Week 3 and showed promise before the injury setback.

If Dart makes full practice participation this coming week, he could be cleared in time for the Giants’ Week 13 matchup. However, concussions remain unpredictable. Doctors must sign off on every step of the process. The Giants also emphasized a cautious approach for long-term health.

How This Affects the Giants Moving Forward

Dart’s absence places more pressure on Winston to lead an offense searching for consistency. The Giants remain in transition under interim coach Mike Kafka. Missing their rookie starter complicates game planning and limits their flexibility.

Fans have followed Dart’s recovery closely. His strong performances early in the season created hope for stability at the position. Losing him for consecutive weeks forced the team to adjust its scheme again. The Giants now rely on Winston’s experience to keep the offense steady.

The situation also affects long-term evaluation. Dart’s development is a priority for the franchise. Any extended absence slows that progress. Still, protecting him is the top concern. Concussions demand patience. One cleared practice could put him back on track for Week 13.

Jaxson Dart’s injury update remains the biggest storyline for the Giants today. He is out for Week 12, still in the protocol, and aiming for a possible return next week. His recovery continues under close medical supervision.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Jaxson Dart playing today?

No. The Giants ruled him out for Week 12 as he remains in the concussion protocol.

Q2: What is Jaxson Dart’s current injury status?

He is in the fourth stage of the NFL’s concussion protocol. He practiced in non-contact drills earlier this week.

Q3: When could Jaxson Dart return?

If he reaches full participation in practice, he could return in Week 13. His timeline is not guaranteed.

Q4: Who is starting for the Giants today?

Jameis Winston will start at quarterback. Russell Wilson is backing him up.

Q5: How many concussions has Dart been evaluated for this season?

He has undergone multiple checks dating back to the preseason, including four evaluations before Week 10.