The New York Giants are evaluating quarterback options for the remainder of the 2026 season after second-year starter Jaxson Dart underwent surgery Friday to repair the meniscus and MCL in his left knee, sidelining him for the regular season.
Jameis Winston, the team's backup, will start Sunday against the Tennessee Titans. His performance could influence how aggressively the Giants pursue a veteran addition.
Giants coach John Harbaugh said "all options are open" regarding potential quarterback acquisitions and left open the possibility of Dart returning if the team advances to the playoffs.
General Manager Joe Schoen is actively exploring available quarterbacks, including potential trades, according to league sources. The Giants could add another quarterback as early as Monday.
Free agent Jimmy Garoppolo is a key target. The Giants have engaged in conversations with Garoppolo's representatives this week. Signing Garoppolo would not require a draft pick in a trade. Garoppolo considered retirement during the offseason but remains open to playing under the right circumstances, preferring a spot on a 53-man roster rather than a practice squad. The Los Angeles Rams and Arizona Cardinals both pursued him earlier in the offseason.
Other quarterbacks on the Giants' radar include Gardner Minshew II, a backup for the Arizona Cardinals, and Justin Fields, a backup for the Kansas City Chiefs. Both have experience with Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy's system. Mac Jones, a backup for the San Francisco 49ers and regarded as one of the NFL's top backups, is also under consideration. Jones posted a 5-3 record last year filling in for Brock Purdy.
Minnesota Vikings reserve J.J. McCarthy, currently the Vikings' third-string quarterback, presents another option. The Giants have conducted extensive background work on McCarthy.
Brandon Allen, who attended training camp with the Giants, is also being considered. New York signed Jake Haener from the practice squad Saturday to serve as Winston's backup against the Titans.
Winston completed 11 of 27 passes for 111 yards with one interception in the Giants' 28-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2 on "Monday Night Football." Giants staff believe his poor performance stemmed from a game plan tailored to Dart's style, which did not suit Winston's pocket-passing tendencies. Winston also had not practiced the silent count with the team, creating issues during the game. Sunday's game plan will accommodate Winston's strengths, drawing from the more than 300 plays installed during the offseason.
