At Giants camp (July 29), Russell Wilson & Jaxson Dart vie for the starting QB job while rookie Malik Nabers shines. Who will win the battle in 2024?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The heat at Giants training camp on Tuesday had little to do with the July sun and everything to do with the fiery competition brewing on the offensive side of the ball. In the most compelling storyline of the preseason so far, veteran Russell Wilson and rookie Jaxson Dart split first-team reps, giving fans a tantalizing glimpse into the team's future under center. But while the quarterbacks battled, it was first-round pick Malik Nabers who stole the show, looking every bit the part of a true number one receiver.
We're going to let the competition play out.
Head Coach Brian Daboll made it clear that the starting quarterback job is wide open, and Tuesday's practice was a testament to that philosophy. Russell Wilson, the seasoned veteran, showed his trademark poise during 11-on-11 drills, while Jaxson Dart flashed the arm talent and mobility that made him a top draft pick. Both quarterbacks focused heavily on getting the ball to Malik Nabers, signaling a clear offensive game plan. For a team desperate for a spark after a 3-14 season, this daily battle is exactly the kind of drama fans have been craving.
While the quarterbacks trade blows, Malik Nabers is quickly emerging as the star of camp. The rookie receiver was a focal point of the offense, running crisp routes and making difficult catches look routine. His social media post of a contested grab during drills only confirmed what reporters were seeing on the field: Nabers has the potential to be a game-changer. After years of searching for a dominant pass-catcher, the Giants may have finally found their man.
The theme of the day, and indeed the camp, comes directly from the top. In his morning press conference, Brian Daboll emphasized that competition and accountability are non-negotiable. His refusal to name a starter at any key position reinforces his message. This isn't just coach-speak; it's a necessary culture shift for a team that finished with a -142 point differential last season. Every player, from the quarterbacks to the last man on the depth chart, is being pushed to earn their spot.
The offensive fireworks were matched by an intense battle on the defensive side, particularly in the secondary. Coaches rotated a host of young draft picks and undrafted free agents in with the starters at cornerback and safety. After a dismal 2024 season where the defense struggled to create turnovers, the front office has clearly prioritized finding ball-hawking defensive backs. While no depth chart changes are official, it's clear that the starting jobs are up for grabs for whoever can prove they can make a play.
With no major injuries reported and key competitions heating up, the Giants are building a foundation of toughness and accountability. All eyes will remain on the quarterback duel and the secondary battles as the team prepares for its first real test: the upcoming preseason opener against the Buffalo Bills. The energy is different, but the question remains: can this new-look roster translate camp buzz into wins?
