New York Giants interim head coach Mike Kafka will take the podium for his first press conference on Wednesday and will do so with a big announcement in tow.
Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports that Kafka intends to name Jameis Winston the starting quarterback for Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers.
Additional reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo suggest Winston will only start in the event that rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart does not clear concussion protocol.
Should Dart clear protocol in time to play, he will reassume his starting role with Winston, not veteran Russell Wilson, serving as his backup.
Wilson, who signed a one-year deal in free agency, will be demoted to emergency third-string quarterback.
At 36, the former Super Bowl champ appears aged, struggling to ignite a stagnant offense plagued by turnovers and inefficiency (the Cowboys game aside). His short-term presence offers little beyond stopgap stability, with no realistic path to a return in 2026.
Winston, the 31-year-old gunslinger known for his occasional recklessness with the ball, brings undeniable upside. A natural leader with infectious energy, Winston excels at motivating teammates and rallying limping units. His arm talent can conjure explosive plays, keeping drives alive where Wilson falters. Moreover, Winston’s vocal commitment to the Giants — coupled with his eagerness to mentor Dart — aligns perfectly with the long-term vision.
Finally, common sense prevails in East Rutherford.
