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Jaxson Dart delivered one of the best performances of NFL Week 1 on Sunday night. What the New York Giants quarterback did after the game might have been even more memorable.
Dart gave the game ball to Malik Nabers following New York’s 28-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, honoring the star wide receiver after his long recovery from a torn ACL and meniscus. Nabers had not appeared in a regular-season game since suffering the injuries against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sept. 28, 2025. He returned nearly a year later and caught six passes for 69 yards in an emotional season opener.
Dart recognized what the night meant to his teammate.
After the game, he quarterback presented Nabers with the ball after leading New York past its NFC East rival.
Jaxson Dart controls Cowboys defense
The moment came after an impressive performance from Dart. The second-year quarterback completed 23 of 29 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for 54 yards while finishing with a 134.2 passer rating.
— Dom (@ZeroChillSports) September 14, 2026Dart repeatedly delivered in important situations. New York converted nine of its 11 third-down opportunities, allowing the Giants to control possession and keep Dak Prescott on the sideline. New tight end Isaiah Likely quickly emerged as one of Dart’s favorite targets. Likely caught eight passes for 78 yards and two touchdowns in his Giants debut.
Malik Nabers did not need to dominate the box score to make an impact. His presence forced Dallas to account for him on nearly every passing down, creating opportunities for Likely and New York’s other receivers. The Giants also received an encouraging performance from Cam Skattebo, who rushed for 81 yards and a touchdown in his return from a significant leg injury.
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Dart was not the only member of the Giants who received a game ball. Giants owner John Mara presented one to John Harbaugh after the longtime Ravens coach won his debut with New York. The Giants hired Harbaugh to change the direction and expectations of a franchise that had struggled to consistently compete in the NFC East. Beating Dallas in a nationally televised opener provided an immediate reason for optimism.
New York produced 394 total yards and scored three consecutive touchdowns spanning the second and third quarters. The Giants also protected Dart and gave him manageable situations throughout the night. It was the type of composed performance New York rarely delivered during recent seasons.
Dart’s development remains the most important part of the Giants’ future. Sunday showed why the organization believes it has finally found a quarterback capable of becoming its long-term answer.
His postgame gesture also revealed something about his leadership.
Dart understood that the night meant more to Nabers than an ordinary Week 1 victory. After everything the receiver endured during his recovery, Dart made sure Nabers left the stadium with the game ball.
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