Giants Defenders Applaud Jaxson Dart for Sliding in Practice: 'We've Been Begging Him to Do That' During Monday’s practice session, New York Giants defenders celebrated a key moment in quarterback Jaxson Dart’s second NFL season as he made a deliberate decision to slide near the sideline instead of engaging with a defender. The move drew immediate praise from the defensive unit, with players erupting in cheers and high-fiving Dart for his apparent shift toward self-preservation. According to on-site observers, including ESPN’s Jason McCourty, the defensive sideline’s reaction underscored the significance of the moment. Dart, entering his second year with the Giants, has faced growing concerns about his susceptibility to injury. His aggressive playing style, which earned him admiration from fans during his rookie season, led to two missed games in 2025 after he suffered a concussion in Week 10. Following that incident, the Giants’ coaching staff and medical team intensified their focus on protecting Dart, emphasizing the importance of minimizing risks to ensure his availability for the 2026 season. Despite these recommendations, Dart initially resisted the advice, telling reporters in early December that “big hits are just part of the game.” However, his approach appeared to shift during Monday’s practice. As he broke free from a defensive tackle, Dart opted to slide rather than absorb contact, a decision that left the defensive sideline visibly relieved. Edge rusher Brian Burns, speaking to reporters afterward, humorously noted the team’s long-standing frustration with Dart’s risk-taking tendencies. “Yeah, we’ve been begging him to do that for a while now, so I’m glad that he’s starting to practice it,” Burns said, adding a note of satisfaction.#espn #new_york_giants #jaxson_dart #jason_mccourty #brian_burns
QB Jaxson Dart Praised for Inbounds Slide During Giants Practice EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart made a notable move during Monday’s training camp practice by sliding after a third-down run, a decision that drew praise from teammates and coaches. The slide, which occurred near the sideline where the defense was positioned, marked a shift from his earlier approach during his rookie season, when his reluctance to get down often led to repeated concussion evaluations. The Giants’ defense responded enthusiastically to the play, with outside linebacker Brian Burns expressing relief that Dart had finally adopted the technique. “We’ve been begging him to do that for a while,” Burns said. “So, I’m glad that he’s starting to practice it.” Coach John Harbaugh also commended the move, applauding Dart’s execution during the drill. “I did,” Harbaugh said. “I clapped. I applauded. It was great.” This moment highlighted a broader change in Dart’s mindset, as he had previously resisted sliding or running out of bounds to avoid tackles. Last season, his aggressive style of play became a focal point of criticism, overshadowing his on-field contributions. Former NFL coach Jon Gruden had warned on a Barstool Sports podcast that Dart’s approach could lead to frequent medical evaluations if not adjusted. His concerns proved valid, as Dart was checked for concussions on five separate occasions during his rookie year with the Giants. The shift in Dart’s behavior appears to stem from conversations with new quarterbacks coach Brian Callahan, who reviewed game footage with him earlier this year. The session focused on the risks of his previous approach and the importance of staying on the field.#new_york_giants #john_harbaugh #jaxson_dart #brian_burns #brian_callahan
