Jaxson Dart Cleared to Play Against Patriots Following Concussion Protocol
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart has successfully passed the final hurdle in the NFL’s concussion protocol, clearing the way for him to take the field Monday night against the New England Patriots. The last step for Dart was obtaining clearance from an independent neurological consultant, a benchmark he has now achieved.
Dart’s Resolve and Support from Teammates
Dart’s teammate, quarterback Jameis Winston, shared insights into Dart’s mindset during his recovery. “Well, we’re still having the same conversations that we would have any given week. I think he’s locked into that point,” Winston noted, reflecting on Dart’s determination over the past two weeks while he was sidelined.
Winston acknowledged the challenges of the NFL’s strict protocols, expressing empathy for Dart’s situation. “Last week, man, he was determined to play. It’s just that the NFL has a strict protocol, and that’s what happened. I was grateful, but at the same time, I felt for him because I know how much work he puts in and how he prepares, and I just told him I had his back.”
He emphasized that the team continues to maintain their usual preparations and conversations, with hopes that Dart can return to lead them to victory.
Injury Concerns for the Giants
While Dart’s clearance brings a sigh of relief, the Giants are facing troubling injury news elsewhere on the roster. Defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence II was unable to practice on Thursday due to an elbow injury, having re-aggravated the same elbow issue that prematurely ended his season last year. This recurring injury has been a significant factor in Lawrence’s performance decline.
In addition to Lawrence, several other key players were also unable to practice. Inside linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles is dealing with neck and knee issues, while outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux might miss his third consecutive game due to a shoulder injury.
Projected Participation Report for the Giants
Did Not Participate*
LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (neck/knee)
DL Dexter Lawrence II (elbow)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (shoulder)
Limited Participation*
CB Paulson Adebo (knee)
CB Deonte Banks (hip)
CB Korie Black (bicep)
DL D.J. Davidson (knee)
S Tyler Nubin (neck)
WR Wan’Dale Robinson (ankle)
WR Darius Slayton (hamstring)
Full Participation*
QB Jaxson Dart (concussion)
It’s important to note that the Giants did not hold practice on Thursday due to the holiday.
Patriots’ Injury Update
On the other side of the field, the New England Patriots also have their share of injury concerns. Their practice participation report lists several players who did not participate, including:
Did Not Participate*
TE C.J. Dippre (back)
LB Harold Landry (illness)
OT Morgan Moses (illness)
S Brendan Schooler (ankle)
LB Jahlani Tavai (NIR-personal)
G Jared Wilson (ankle)
Limited Participation*
DT Christian Barmore (NIR-other)
LB K’Lavon Chaisson (ankle)
TE Hunter Henry (toe)
DT Khyris Tonga (chest)
Additionally, the Patriots announced that defensive coordinator Terrell Williams will miss the game due to a medical issue, with Zak Kuhr stepping in to assume his responsibilities.
As the Giants prepare to face the Patriots, the focus will be on Dart’s return and the team’s ability to navigate the challenges posed by their injuries.
