IMAGE: New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson (3) makes a pass during the first quarter against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium. / Peter Casey / Imagn Images

Russell Wilson Benched, But Not Bailing: Veteran QB Stays Put as Giants Hand Reins to Jaxson Dart

For the first time since being sent to the sidelines, Russell Wilson addressed the media - and the buzz that he might be looking for a way out of New York. The answer? Not so fast.

Despite being benched after just three games into his stint with the Giants and replaced by rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, Wilson made it clear that he’s not angling for a release or a trade. He’s staying right where he is - for now.

That decision might come as a surprise to some, especially given the optics around Wilson’s short leash. The Giants coaching staff didn’t wait long before turning the offense over to their first-round pick, signaling a new era in East Rutherford. But Wilson, the 36-year-old former Pro Bowler and Super Bowl winner, seems content-at least publicly-to embrace the mentor role and stay ready in the QB2 spot.

Head coach Brian Daboll confirmed that Wilson is still the No. 2 on the depth chart behind Dart, but ahead of fellow veteran Jameis Winston. That pecking order gives the Giants some valuable security behind a rookie, but also speaks to the trust they still have in Wilson’s locker room presence and experience.

Let’s take a step back. Wilson’s career arc has been a story of breathtaking highs and startling detours.

Drafted by the Seahawks in the third round in 2012, he quickly became the face of a franchise, leading Seattle to a Super Bowl title and earning a reputation as one of the more dynamic quarterbacks in the league. That led to a series of blockbuster paydays: a four-year, $140 million extension in 2019, which included a hefty $65 million signing bonus.

Once the Seahawks moved on in 2022, Denver came calling with a major trade and even bigger expectations.

But things didn’t pan out in the Mile High City. Despite a fresh five-year, $245 million extension that guaranteed $165 million, Wilson’s tenure in Denver flamed out fast. He didn’t even make it to the new portion of that megadeal before the Broncos made the bold move to cut ties, eating a record-setting $85 million dead cap hit to hit the reset button.

Wilson landed in Pittsburgh on a one-year veteran minimum deal, a notable step down from his previous perch atop the quarterback pay scale. After his stint there, the Giants brought him in for the 2025 season on another one-year contract - likely a low-risk, high-upside bet.

And through three games this season, Wilson’s numbers were... fine. Not electric, not disaster.

A 59.1% completion rate for 778 yards, three touchdowns, and three picks, along with 94 yards on the ground. Solid for a transitional quarterback, but not enough to hold off a first-rounder with upside and momentum on his side.

Still, Wilson has said all the right things - and done the right things - even as his role has shifted dramatically. He’s no longer the star.

He’s the steady hand in the background. And for now, he’s not asking out of it.

For the Giants, it's a calculated gamble: let the rookie learn on the fly, but keep a decorated veteran within arm's reach. Whether that decision pays off may hinge on how fast Dart adapts to the pro game... and whether Wilson's experience becomes invaluable later in the season.

We’ll keep a close eye as this quarterback saga continues to unfold in New York. But for now, Russell Wilson is staying put-and playing his new role without protest.