Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Nov 12: The New York Giants have named Jameis Winston as the starting quarterback for their Week 11 clash against the Green Bay Packers, with rookie Jaxson Dart still in concussion protocol following last week’s loss to the Chicago Bears.

The move marks interim head coach Mike Kafka’s first major decision since replacing Brian Daboll, who was sacked after the team’s dismal 2-8 start. Winston, who signed a two-year, $8 million deal in the offseason, has yet to play a snap this season after serving as the third-string quarterback behind Russell Wilson and Dart.

The decision also underscores Russell Wilson’s sharp fall in New York’s depth chart. Once the season opener, Wilson has struggled since being benched in Week 4 and managed only 45 passing yards in limited play against the Bears last week.

Winston, 31, offers the Giants a more aggressive and vocal presence. Known for his powerful arm and risk-taking style, he threw for 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions last season with the Cleveland Browns. Sources say Kafka values Winston’s energy and leadership, seeing him as a spark for a struggling offense.

“If Dart clears concussion protocol, he’ll regain his starting role,” reports say. “Until then, Winston has a chance to prove himself and stabilize the team’s offense.”

The move also raises questions about Wilson’s future in New York, as his relegation to third string suggests he’s no longer part of the team’s long-term plans.

For Kafka, starting Winston is a symbolic reset—a message that performance, not reputation, earns playing time in a rebuilding Giants squad.