As losses mount and draft positioning sharpens, speculation has shifted from short term fixes to long range planning, including whether the New York Giants should already be looking beyond its rookie quarterback, Jaxson Dart.
One of the loudest names entering that discussion is Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, whose rapid rise has made him a popular projection for the top of the 2026 NFL draft. Still, not everyone is convinced that chasing the next prospect is the right move for a team already searching for stability.
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Jordan Rodgers made that case clearly on Wednesday’s edition of ESPN‘s “Get Up.” The former Vanderbilt quarterback and current analyst argued that the Giants would be better served continuing to develop Dart rather than positioning themselves to draft Mendoza down the line. His reasoning centered on how quarterbacks survive and grow in today’s NFL.
“The problem is Jaxson Dart is a force multiplier because of his ability with his legs,” Rodgers said. “He can change the way you have to play defense. He can change the way he makes plays outside the pocket, those off-schedule plays.
Fernando Mendoza can beat you from the pocket. He is so good, intellectual and accurate downfield, but it is so hard as a rookie to win in the NFL from the pocket without the ability to really hurt you with his legs and I think that’s the downside of his game.”
Rodgers‘ point was not about dismissing Mendoza‘s talent. Instead, it was about reality. Young quarterbacks rarely enter the league with perfect protection, elite weapons, or stable systems.
In that environment, mobility often becomes a lifeline, allowing players to escape pressure, create second chances, and stress defenses in ways that do not show up on a stat sheet.
Why Rodgers believes Dart deserves time
Rodgers expanded on his argument by pointing to the situation Dart has been placed in as a rookie. From his perspective, the Giants have not yet built an offense that allows Dart‘s strengths to shine, making any rush to replace him premature.
“He did it without Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo for most of the time as well,” the ex-QB added. “He’s a dude you have to build around because he could be the next Josh Allen.”
