Jaxson Dart’s Potential Playoff Return and Its Impact on the New York Giants

Former college football quarterback turned surgeon, Dr. Drew Burdi, shared insights about Jaxson Dart’s possible return for the New York Giants in the playoffs. While Dart remains sidelined due to knee surgery, Burdi did not dismiss the chance of his comeback if the Giants secure a playoff spot.

Burdi commented, “He’s a good player. So, I don’t know if they’ll rush him back.” His perspective highlights the balance between a player’s health and team performance.

Jaxson Dart injured quarterback Jaxson Dart walking on the sideline during a game on November 16, 2025, at MetLife Stadium. (Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta/Imagn Images)

Dart’s knee surgery on September 25 involved repairing his meniscus and dealing with MCL and PCL damage. Although not specialized in knee injuries, Burdi emphasized the risk of rushing Dart’s return. “I think in his situation, they’ll probably hold him out. His long-term career could be jeopardized,” he noted. Examples like Robert Griffin III underline the potential threats of premature comebacks.

Giants head coach John Harbaugh excluded Dart from the regular season but hinted at a potential playoff appearance. Recovery is estimated at four to six months, with the Divisional Round scheduled close to the end of that period.

On October 1, Harbaugh remarked, “I think he tweeted out he’s going to be back for the playoffs. Maybe that’s a little ambitious.” The timeline raises questions about realistic expectations for Dart’s recovery and readiness.

New York’s chances in the playoffs hinge on current performance. The Giants sit at 3-1-1, leading the NFC East. Their main rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys, face struggles. The Eagles have a 2-3 record, hindered by Jalen Hurts’ health issues. Similarly, the Cowboys also have a 2-3 record, with ongoing defensive problems.

The Giants’ opportunity to win the division depends on continuing their current form. They have performed well without Dart, currently at 2-0-1 in his absence. They face the 1-4 New Orleans Saints on Sunday, aiming to strengthen their playoff hopes further.

Ryan Canfield, working with Fox News Digital, emphasizes the importance of the situation: Dart’s return could redefine the Giants’ playoff run amid a challenging NFC East.