The NFL preseason is in full swing as teams see live snaps against opposition. This gives coaches an opportunity to closely evaluate the state of their teams as they build momentum toward the regular season. The New York Giants, in particular, have a lot to work through after making major changes this offseason. John Harbaugh was hired as head coach, the team had two top-10 draft picks, and it is also getting several key players back healthy.
In their first preseason game, though, one of their key stars took a few shots. It will certainly be something Harbaugh scrutinizes during film review. Jaxson Dart was sacked twice, including one hit that came close to having major consequences.
Dart took a brutal hit from Minnesota Vikings defensive back Jay Ward on a sack. Dart did not appear to anticipate the quick pressure and took the full force of the hit.
MORE: Josh Allen, Bills offense appear in midseason form, light up the stat sheet in first game action
After being slow to get up, Dart was taken into the blue tent to be evaluated for a concussion. He was cleared, returned to the field, and threw a touchdown pass.
Giants Can’t Allow These Kinds of Hits to Their Quarterback in Preseason
Dart’s health will be one of the most important factors in determining how successful the Giants can be this season. New York invested a first-round pick in the quarterback because the organization believes he can eventually become the face of the franchise. Keeping him healthy has to be a priority.
That makes the hit from Ward especially concerning. While sacks are an unavoidable part of football, the Giants have little reason to expose Dart to unnecessary punishment in the preseason.
MORE: Why Falcons’ Tua Tagovailoa was ‘frustrated and disappointed’ after preseason opener
New York needs Dart to get valuable experience and develop chemistry with his teammates. However, there is a balance between getting him reps and putting him in harm’s way. A quarterback taking a hit like that in a regular-season game is one thing. Allowing it to happen in a preseason game is another.
Harbaugh and the Giants will undoubtedly examine the protection breakdown that allowed Ward to reach Dart so quickly. If the offense cannot consistently keep its quarterback clean, it could create a much bigger problem once the games begin to count.
Dart ultimately returned and delivered a touchdown, which was encouraging. Still, the Giants should view the sequence as a warning. Keeping their young quarterback healthy must remain one of their top priorities throughout the preseason.