Giants' Jaxson Dart 'Puzzled' by NFL's Concussion Evaluation Protocol After Taking Big Preseason Hit

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart said he's a little "puzzled" by the NFL's concussion protocols after being briefly evaluated in Saturday's 13-10 preseason loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Dart went to the blue medical tent shortly after absorbing a big hit from Vikings safety Jay Ward in the first quarter.

The second-year signal-caller eventually reentered the contest after being evaluated for a concussion.

"As far as the blue tent, I really respect the rules and the thought behind (it), the NFL has of keeping players healthy and reviewing things," he told reporters after the game. "But at the same time, I'm still puzzled by it just feeling like every time I get hit, I find my way in there, which at times I still try to wrap my head around."

Dart made 14 appearances as a rookie in 2025. While diagnosed with one concussion, he had five different checks throughout the year. Last December, he brought up what he thought was a "sensitivity" toward him whenever he took contact.

Dart's mobility is a double-edged sword. His ability to scramble out of the pocket makes him effective while simultaneously leaving him prone to taking more hits. Adapting from his first season, he's making a concerted effort in training camp to slide rather than extend plays.

Dart may not have liked his brief trip to the blue tent Saturday, but it was an understandable call given how vicious Ward's tackle looked. The young QB also stayed on the turf for a bit, so trainers were clearly erring on the side of caution.

Avoiding hits like the one delivered by Ward is the most straightforward way for Dart to keep out of the tent altogether.