Jaxson Dart concussion reshapes Giants week: status in protocol, Daboll fired, Mike Kafka weighs QB plan for Packers

Bassyonni

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Jaxson Dart

Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart left the New York Giants vs. Chicago Bears game on Sunday, Nov. 9 with a concussion and was ruled out in the fourth quarter of the 24–20 loss. Less than 24 hours later, the Giants fired head coach Brian Daboll and named Mike Kafka interim head coach, putting the franchise’s quarterback decision—and broader direction—under a glaring spotlight ahead of Week 11 vs. the Green Bay Packers (Sun., Nov. 16, 1:00 p.m. ET).

What happened to Jaxson Dart?

Midway through the fourth quarter in Chicago, Jaxson Dart absorbed a heavy hit, was evaluated in the sideline tent, and then taken to the locker room. The team later announced a concussion; he did not return. Before exiting, Dart had delivered one of his most dynamic outings as a pro, piling up yards through the air and on the ground and accounting for two rushing touchdowns. His departure shifted the game’s tenor and ultimately set the stage for a late Bears rally.

Is Jaxson Dart hurt? Yes—he’s in the NFL concussion protocol. That process includes progressive steps (symptom-limited activity, aerobic work, non-contact drills, full football activity, then clearance by an independent neurologist). Until he completes every step without symptoms, he cannot play. As of Tuesday, Nov. 11, his Week 11 status is uncertain.

Giants QB depth chart after the injury

With Dart out, veteran Russell Wilson took over, guiding a drive that extended the Giants’ lead before the late collapse. The new interim head coach Mike Kafka now faces a short-term decision:

If Dart clears protocol: He resumes as starter against Green Bay.
If not: Russell Wilson is the leading next-man-up, with Jameis Winston as the other active option.

This week’s practice reps will be revealing. Teams typically split early-week reps to hedge for protocol outcomes, then consolidate by Friday.

Why the Giants moved on from Brian Daboll

The Giants’ 2–8 start, repeated late-game collapses (including the 24–20 defeat to Chicago), and inconsistent offense crystallized ownership’s decision to make a change on Nov. 10. Mike Kafka—previously assistant head coach/offensive coordinator—takes over immediately. The front office signaled continuity at general manager while opening a months-long coaching search. In the near term, the locker room gets a fresh voice and, potentially, tweaks to communication and game management.

Russell Wilson news: what Sunday—and the week ahead—mean

Russell Wilson remains the most experienced contingency if Jaxson/Jackson/Jaxon Dart (spelling variants fans use) can’t go. Sunday’s relief stint was uneven—some rhythm throws, some stalls—but the staff knows exactly what they’re calling with him: quick-game timing, play-action keepers to define reads, and selective deep shots off max protect. If Wilson starts, expect protection-first scripts, heavy use of tight ends on crossers, and designed touches for the top boundary targets.

Giants–Bears takeaways that affect Week 11

Explosives vs. consistency: The offense generated chunk gains with Dart but struggled to finish drives late. Kafka’s challenge is preserving the explosive element while tightening situational execution.
Two-minute defense: Repeated late breakdowns flipped winnable games. Expect emphasis on rush discipline and coverage communication in end-of-half scripts.
Special teams leverage: A short-field sequence and a late kicking decision swung field position. That phase becomes a priority in a tight Week 11 matchup.

Jaxson Dart injury update: what to watch day by day

Wednesday: Injury report returns; if Dart is listed as limited with “concussion,” he’s in the activity phase of protocol. DNP suggests earlier-stage recovery.
Thursday/Friday: Move to full participation without setbacks is the key green light before the independent clearance step.
Saturday: Final status often firmed up; teams elevate a practice-squad QB if needed.

If you’re asking “why is Jaxson Dart not playing?” the only acceptable reason this week is protocol. Even if he “feels fine,” independent clearance is mandatory.

Giants vs. Packers 2025: the tactical ripple

With Dart: Expect keeper game, sprint-outs to stress edges, and RPO looks that punish soft boxes. Designed QB runs likely trimmed but not erased post-concussion.
With Wilson: More static in-pocket timing and defined reads; run game becomes the tone-setter with shot plays layered on down-and-distance advantage.

Green Bay’s defense has thrived when it can rush four and keep shells intact. The Giants need on-schedule runs, quick-game efficiency, and at least one manufactured explosive per half to loosen coverage.

Quick answers to top searches

What happened to Jaxson Dart today / did Jaxson Dart get hurt? Yes—concussion on Nov. 9 vs. the Bears; ruled out of that game.
Jaxson Dart concussion / injury today / injury update: In protocol; status for Nov. 16 vs. Packers is TBD.
Giants vs. Bears / Giants score: Bears 24, Giants 20 (Nov. 9).
Giants QB now: Mike Kafka will decide based on Dart’s clearance. If he’s out, Russell Wilson is the likely starter, with Jameis Winston in reserve.
Russell Wilson news: Came on in relief Sunday; role for Week 11 depends on Dart’s progress.

The headline is simple—Jaxson Dart is in the concussion protocol after the Giants–Bears loss, and the franchise simultaneously reset leadership, elevating Mike Kafka. The next 72 hours determine who starts at quarterback against the Packers and how sharply this offense can pivot under new stewardship.