Image Source: USA Today
Jaxson Dart injury concerns quickly became the central storyline during the New York Giants’ Week 2 “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 21, 2026. The second-year quarterback left the game after appearing to hurt his knee during New York’s opening offensive drive.
Dart took a hit from two Rams defenders after completing a pass on the Giants’ seventh play from scrimmage. He remained on the field after the play, grabbing at his leg while medical personnel came out to evaluate him.
The 23-year-old quarterback was eventually able to walk off the field under his own power. He briefly entered the Giants’ blue medical tent before leaving the sideline and heading toward the locker room with a slight limp.
Jaxson Dart injury update: Giants quarterback ruled questionable
The Giants announced that Dart was questionable to return with a knee injury. The team did not immediately provide a more specific diagnosis, leaving his status uncertain for the remainder of the game and beyond.
ESPN cameras later showed Dart getting onto a cart outside the Giants’ locker room. Announcer Joe Buck reported that the quarterback was headed to the X-ray room at SoFi Stadium for additional evaluation.
The injury appeared to involve Dart’s left knee, although the initial broadcast and team announcement did not confirm the severity. The Giants were expected to provide more information after further testing.
How the injury happened
The play occurred at the end of New York’s first possession. Dart delivered the pass before being hit by two Los Angeles defenders. He stayed down briefly as trainers examined him, then walked toward the sideline without assistance.
Dart missed two games during the 2025 season after suffering a concussion. Aside from that absence, he had not missed significant time because of an injury early in his professional career.
His departure created an immediate challenge for the Giants, who entered the game with only two quarterbacks on their active roster.
Jameis Winston takes over for New York
Veteran quarterback Jameis Winston replaced Dart and led the Giants’ offense on New York’s second drive. Winston is in his second season with the team after signing a two-year, $8 million contract before the 2025 season.
The 32-year-old quarterback has previous experience stepping in for Dart. Winston appeared in three games and made two starts for the Giants last season when Dart missed time because of a concussion.
- Games played in 2025: Three
- Starts: Two
- Passing yards: 567
- Passing touchdowns: Two
- Interceptions: Two
- Completion rate: 56.1%
Winston also caught a 33-yard touchdown pass on a trick play during his time with New York last season. His experience gives the Giants a dependable veteran option if Dart cannot return.
Giants quarterback depth chart
- Jaxson Dart — questionable with a knee injury
- Jameis Winston — active backup quarterback
- Jake Haener — practice squad quarterback
Jake Haener was on the Giants’ practice squad but was not part of the active roster for the Week 2 matchup. He also was not listed as the emergency third quarterback, meaning Winston was effectively the only available active quarterback after Dart left.
That roster situation could become especially important if Dart’s knee injury prevents him from playing in the coming weeks. New York may need to elevate Haener or add another quarterback depending on the results of Dart’s evaluation.
What the injury means for the Giants
Dart’s health could have a significant impact on the Giants’ offense, team plans and fantasy football outlook. As the team’s starting quarterback, he has been entrusted with directing New York’s passing attack and managing the offense during the early portion of the 2026 season.
For now, the Giants have not announced a final diagnosis or confirmed how much time Dart might miss. The most important developments will be the X-ray results, any additional imaging and the team’s official injury report.
Fantasy managers should monitor updates before making decisions involving Dart, Winston and the Giants’ offensive players. Winston would become the leading option under center if Dart is ruled out for a future game.
Frequently asked questions
What injury did Jaxson Dart suffer?
The Giants listed Dart as questionable to return with a knee injury after he was hit by two Rams defenders during the first drive.
Did Jaxson Dart leave the game?
Yes. Dart walked off the field, visited the Giants’ medical tent and then went to the locker room for further evaluation.
Who replaced Jaxson Dart?
Veteran quarterback Jameis Winston replaced Dart and took over the Giants’ offense.
Is Jaxson Dart expected to miss future games?
The Giants had not confirmed the severity of the injury or announced a timetable. His availability will depend on further medical testing.
Who is behind Jameis Winston?
Jake Haener is on the Giants’ practice squad, but he was not listed as an emergency third quarterback for the Week 2 game.
