Get the latest from Giants minicamp (June 2025) as rookie Jaxson Dart secures the QB2 spot and Brian Burns leads a dominant new-look defense.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
As the New York Giants wrapped up their mandatory minicamp on Thursday, the fog of the offseason began to clear, revealing a tantalizing picture of the team's future. The quarterback room has a new, clear hierarchy with rookie Jaxson Dart officially securing the backup role, while the revamped defensive front is already showing signs of being the dominant force fans have been craving.
I'm a process-driven person, so I'm taking it day-by-day, rep-by-rep.
The biggest storyline entering the offseason has its first chapter written. After an inconsistent start to OTAs that saw him throw a couple of interceptions, first-round pick Jaxson Dart finished minicamp with a flourish, tossing two touchdowns in 7-on-7 drills. His strong close solidified the coaching staff's plan: veteran Russell Wilson is the undisputed QB1, but Dart is the heir apparent, officially slotting in as QB2 ahead of Jameis Winston. The rookie is embracing the learning curve, stating his goal is to 'be the most coachable player I can' and learn from Wilson. This isn't just a depth chart update; it's the beginning of a deliberate, calculated transformation for the most important position in sports.
While the offense finds its new identity, the defense is busy forging a fearsome one. Minicamp footage has been electric, showcasing a defensive front that lived in the backfield. The trio of Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and rookie Abdul Carter consistently collapsed the pocket, providing a glimpse of a pass rush that could solve last season's biggest defensive woes. Adding fuel to the fire, Thibodeaux is entering the year with sky-high ambitions, setting his sights on breaking the NFL's single-season sack record. After an underwhelming 2024, this rejuvenated pass rush looks poised to be the engine of the 2025 Giants.
Beyond the major headlines, the Giants' front office has been handling its business. The team officially signed its entire 2025 draft class, with running back Cam Skattebo inking his deal to complete the group. This ensures all rookies will be ready for the start of training camp. On the injury front, Coach Brian Daboll eased concerns about star receiver Malik Nabers' lingering toe issue, which dates back to his time at LSU. Daboll confirmed the team is managing it but stated there's no long-term concern, and Nabers is expected to be a full participant when camp opens.
With minicamp in the books, the Giants head into the summer break with a clear sense of direction. The quarterback succession plan is in motion, the pass rush looks legitimately fearsome, and key players are on track for training camp. While the real tests are yet to come, the foundation laid this spring provides a genuine reason for optimism. All eyes will now turn to late July, when the pads come on and we see if this offseason momentum can translate into a true Big Blue revival.