Giants’ Offseason QB Moves Stir Internal Debate Over Russell Wilson vs. Jameis Winston
The New York Giants made waves this offseason by signing both Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in free agency before drafting Jaxson Dart in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. While Wilson enters training camp as the presumptive starter, reports suggest that not everyone in the Giants organization was sold on him—and some even preferred Winston.
Wilson Wasn’t the First Choice
According to Paul Schwartz of the New York Post, general manager Joe Schoen initially attempted to trade up to No. 1 in the draft to select Cam Ward, the Miami quarterback. When that fell through, Schoen set his sights on multiple veteran quarterbacks.
Wilson was reportedly behind Matthew Stafford and Aaron Rodgers on the Giants’ wishlist. When those options didn’t materialize, New York signed Wilson to a one-year, $10.5 million deal with incentives that could double his earnings.
Internal Split: Winston vs. Wilson
Despite ultimately landing both, some inside the Giants camp leaned toward Winston. Team personnel were reportedly more impressed with Winston’s demeanor and upside during visits compared to Wilson. While Winston’s career has been marked by inconsistency, his ceiling when playing well is hard to ignore.
There were warts on all the quarterback options,” a team source shared. “But some of us felt Winston had more to offer if things clicked.”
The Giants’ strategy was clear: sign a veteran to serve as a bridge to Jaxson Dart, and hope for immediate improvement after a turbulent 2024 campaign.
Wilson: A Polarizing Presence
Wilson’s recent stints with the Seahawks, Broncos, and Steelers ended with more controversy than success. His leadership style and personality have historically split locker rooms. However, with the Giants, he’s reportedly been a “breath of fresh air”, providing professionalism and veteran savvy to a team eager to bounce back.
Yet, the short-term commitment reveals the team’s cautious optimism. Wilson might be the starter, but he’s essentially keeping the seat warm for Dart, who’s viewed as the long-term answer.
Jameis Winston: High Risk, High Reward
While Winston hasn’t started consistently in recent years, his raw talent and experience make him an intriguing option. He’s been well-received during camp and could step in should Wilson falter.
The Giants’ internal debate over these quarterbacks underscores a bigger theme: New York is throwing everything at the wall to see what sticks—a sign of desperation but also a sign of urgency.
Looking Ahead
With Week 1 set for September 7th against the Washington Commanders, all eyes will be on how the quarterback situation unfolds. Whether it’s Wilson, Winston, or eventually Dart, the Giants’ 2025 success will likely hinge on who emerges as the leader under center.
