Giants Say Dart Is Eyeing Playoff Return While Still on Crutches

Overview

• Giants general manager Joe Schoen said Tuesday that Jaxson Dart believes he could return if New York reaches the playoffs, but Schoen stressed that was the player’s mindset and not a medical timetable.
• Dart has remained around the team and is attending quarterback meetings while rehabbing, though Schoen confirmed he is not yet weight-bearing and is using crutches.
• Dart suffered knee damage in Week 2 against the Rams and was placed on injured reserve in September, with reports citing injuries to the MCL, PCL and meniscus while the ACL was not damaged.
• New York has pivoted to J.J. McCarthy as the starter and keeps veteran Jameis Winston as depth, a setup the team says it will maintain until medical clearance or clearer rehab progress changes plans.
• A playoff berth would extend the Giants’ season window and create the only practical route for a late Dart return, so the team’s on-field performance this year directly affects his realistic chance to play again.