New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart expressed his confusion over the NFL's concussion protocols after a hit in the team's preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings.
Dart sustained a blow from Vikings safety Jay Ward in the first quarter of the game, leading to a trip to the sideline medical tent for a concussion check. This marked the sixth such check for the second-year quarterback in the past year, including five during his rookie season. Last year, Dart missed two games due to a concussion diagnosis.
"As far as the blue tent, I really respect the rules and the thought behind the NFL has of keeping players healthy and reviewing things," Dart said, according to ESPN. "But at the same time, I'm still puzzled by it just feeling like every time that I get hit, I find my way in there, which, at times, I still try to wrap my head around."
Despite the scare, Dart cleared concussion protocol and returned to the game two plays later. He completed 3 of 4 passes for 26 yards and a touchdown before being pulled from the game. The touchdown pass was caught by rookie third-round pick Malachi Fields.
Giants' right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor suggested that the attention on Dart's concussion checks might be amplified due to his profile. "If a normal QB takes that hit, I'm sure not much is going to be said about it," Eluemunor said. "But, you know, when we play in New York and it's Jaxson Dart, I'm assuming people are going to make it bigger than it actually is."
Dart has gained attention beyond his on-field performance. He was recently featured introducing President Donald Trump at a "Fighting For American Workers" event. Trump has previously expressed his admiration for Dart, including him as one of his favorites to win the Super Bowl this season.
"I like their quarterback a lot," Trump said when asked about his Super Bowl favorites. Trump also indicated that the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Rams are strong contenders.