In Saturday’s preseason opener against the Vikings, Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart took a big hit from Vikings safety Jay Ward, who blitzed Dart on a passing play. Dart was sent to the blue medical tent before returning to the game and throwing a touchdown pass on the next play.
After the game, Dart questioned the frequency of his mandatory trips to the sideline medical facility.
“I really respect the rules, and the thought behind, you know, the NFL has of keeping players healthy and reviewing things,” Dart told reporters. “But at the same time, I’m still puzzled by just feeling like every time that I get hit, you know, I just find my way in there. Which, at times, I still try to wrap my head around, but that’s all that I’m gonna say about that situation.”
He then was asked whether it’s just his reality at this point, and whether he’ll accept it or if there’s anything he can do about it.
“That’s all I’m gonna say about that situation,” Dart said.
Dart later acknowledged that he merely got the wind knocked out of him.
The NFL has established a protocol for removing players for mandatory medical checks, primarily in search of players who may have had concussions. No player or team has ever previously suggested that one specific person has been somehow targeted for medical evaluations.
Of course, Dart was involved in a fairly significant incident last year, when former coach Brian Daboll tried to rush the evaluation process for strategic purposes. The situation resulted in a $200,000 fine for the Giants, a $100,000 fine for Daboll, and a $15,000 fine for running back Cam Skattebo, who entered the tent while Dart was being checked.
Dart’s comments won’t result in fewer trips to the blue tent. If anything, the spotters will be watching him even more closely, in the event he’s trying to hide any/all indications that a concussion evaluation is needed.
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