As the NFL season heats up in late September 2026, the New York Giants find themselves at a crossroads. The devastating news of Jaxson Dart's season-ending knee injury has sent shockwaves through the organization, but head coach John Harbaugh is not one to dwell on misfortune. Quoting his father Jack, Harbaugh emphasized resilience, and the Giants are doing just that. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the team is rallying around Jameis Winston as their new QB1, but questions loom about the depth behind him.
The Winston Era Begins
The Giants extended Jameis Winston for a reason: they believed he could keep the ship afloat if Dart went down. Now, that belief is being put to the test. Winston's first start was rocky—11 of 27 for 111 yards and an interception—but the coaching staff remains confident. However, as reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the margin for error is thin. With playoff aspirations still alive, the Giants need competent quarterback play, and Winston must deliver quickly to avoid a quarterback carousel.
Free Agent Options: Jimmy Garoppolo and Josh Johnson
The most intriguing free-agent option is Jimmy Garoppolo. Sources tell Vulius that the Rams wanted him back this summer, and he's a favorite of Sean McVay. Garoppolo didn't have the interest in continuing to play, but this opportunity might reignite his passion. He last played in 2024, losing his only start for the Rams but throwing for 334 yards and two touchdowns. Alternatively, Josh Johnson, currently on the Bengals practice squad, has experience with Harbaugh from their time together. Johnson started two games for the Commanders in 2025, going 1-1 with 372 passing yards. Both present viable short-term solutions.
Trade Targets and Developmental Projects
Contending teams are unlikely to trade their backup quarterbacks, ruling out names like Mac Jones and Joe Flacco. The Eagles have Tanner McKee and Andy Dalton, but the Giants would have to overpay a division rival. The Vikings are a team to watch, with both Carson Wentz and J.J. McCarthy on the roster. Wentz is trusted by Kevin O'Connell, but McCarthy is available for the right price. Will Levis, recently signed to the Jets' practice squad, is a developmental project with turnover issues. Russell Wilson, who still lives in New York, would love a return, but his 2024 stint with the Giants was underwhelming.
The Road Ahead
As the Giants navigate this crisis, they must act swiftly. The NFC East is a gauntlet, and every game counts. With Harbaugh at the helm, the team remains confident, but adding a veteran quarterback is imperative. Whether it's Garoppolo, Johnson, or a trade for McCarthy, the Giants' season hangs in the balance. For now, all eyes are on Winston to see if he can recapture his magic and keep the Giants' playoff hopes alive.
Looking to represent Jimmy Garoppolo? Grab your Jimmy Garoppolo jersey or design a personalized custom jersey at Vulius.
