Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

The New York Giants are the only team in the NFL officially eliminated from the 2025 postseason.

Don't tell that to rookie Jaxson Dart, because he does not care.

He's playing.

After missing two games due to a concussion, the 2025 draft first-rounder is officially back in the starting role for Monday's game against the 10-2 New England Patriots. Dart has cleared concussion protocol and will be ready to duel sophomore quarterback Drake Maye, who is vying for an MVP award in just his second season in the league.

For Dart, it's been a turbulent but exciting first step into the NFL. After being picked by the Giants, he usurped veteran Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback in the first month of the season and never looked back. His helacious, in-your-face style of playing the game has made him an instant fan favorite in the Big Apple, as Dart has rushed for a touchdown in six of the seven games he's started this campaign.

While the result doesn't matter in terms of playoff hopes, it is a matter of pride and a possible bid for Rookie of the Year still on the line for the former Ole Miss QB. During Thanksgiving weekend and on a marquee Monday Night Football game against a fellow young conductor trying to stamp his place as the future of the league, Dart has an opportunity to steal headlines as he did previously in the year when the Giants upset the defending champion Eagles.

Heading into 2026, the Giants brass will be armed with another high first-round pick to join the likes of Dart, Cam Skattebo, Malik Nabers, and Abdul Carter in the team's youthful core. In addition, whoever they select as their new head coach after firing Brian Daboll midway through the season could be the difference between a return to the postseason in 2026 or another winter trip to Cancun.

This season, Dart has thrown for 1,417 yards and rushed for 317 yards, totaling 17 touchdowns.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Jaxson Dart clears concussion protocol, starts vs. Patriots on Monday

Reporting by Tyler Erzberger, Touchdown Wire / Touchdown Wire

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect