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The Express Gazette
Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Giants QB Jaxson Dart Faces Potential Season-Ending Surgery, Fantasy Managers Seek Replacements

With an average draft position of QB11, fantasy owners of Jaxson Dart must look for alternatives following a severe knee injury.

US Politics 2 hours ago
Giants QB Jaxson Dart Faces Potential Season-Ending Surgery, Fantasy Managers Seek Replacements

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart is facing a potential season-ending surgery after sustaining a left knee injury in the opening minutes of the team's Week 2 loss to the Rams. The injury is reportedly more severe than initially anticipated, despite head coach John Harbaugh's post-game comments suggesting the outcome was not "devastating."

Dart, who was drafted as the 11th quarterback on average by fantasy football managers, will require a short-term replacement at minimum. His backup, Jameis Winston, completed 11 of 27 passes for 111 yards and an interception after relieving Dart. Fantasy owners who relied on Dart, who had showcased significant upside with 284 total yards and three touchdowns against Dallas in Week 1, will need to find new options.

Quarterback Alternatives

Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers (34 percent rostered) has emerged as a strong fantasy starter. Through his first two games, Young has thrown for three touchdowns in each, accumulating 648 passing yards, six touchdowns, and one interception. He ranks second in the league in quarterback performance, trailing only Josh Allen. Young's efficiency is notable, with an 8.9 yards-per-attempt average, a 113.3 passer rating, and the seventh-best quarterback grade from PFF at 83.9. His receiving options, including Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker, and tight end Darren Waller, provide a solid floor for fantasy production.

Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints (49 percent rostered) leads the NFL in passing yards through two weeks. Shough posted 25.2 fantasy points against the Lions and followed up with 22.38 points in the Saints' upset victory over the Ravens. He has demonstrated an ability to extend plays with his legs and ranks eighth in completion percentage at 68.9 percent. His dual-threat capabilities have been effective, particularly as the Saints maintain a perfect record in fourth-down conversions. The NFC South division features several defenses that Shough has yet to face.

Kyler Murray, Minnesota Vikings (58 percent rostered) is returning from concussion protocol and enters a favorable situation against Tampa Bay, a team that is allowing 28 points per game and has committed five turnovers in the first two weeks. Although Murray still has points to prove with the Vikings, his schedule includes matchups against Miami, Indianapolis, and Detroit, offering potential for strong performances from his receiving targets like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson.

Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks (27 percent rostered) may return from a glute injury in Week 3 against Washington, a matchup that could be a welcome return. Darnold is reportedly ahead of schedule, and his potential return is noteworthy, especially considering the performance of backup Drew Lock in the offense against Arizona. Last season, Darnold finished as QB14 in fantasy football.

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart (6) practices his throws during a week one opening game between the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys at Metlife Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, in East Rutherford, NJ.


Sources