- Giants. Despite being drafted 119 picks ahead, Giants' Jaxson Dart says he's a fan of Browns' Shedeur Sanders
- Giants. Russell Wilson already threw some shade at Jaxson Dart, and things could be tense with the Giants
In a surprising clash of NFL narratives, former star wide receiver Chad Johnson has openly challenged Russell Wilson's portrayal as a ive mentor to rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Johnson, known for his fiery on-field personality, bluntly dismissed Wilson's claim of selflessly nurturing Dart - insisting instead that the veteran's true motive is protecting his own job, bluntly stating, "He's here to take my damn job."
Johnson's critique emerged after Wilson, newly arrived in New York, spoke warmly about stepping into a leadership role and mentoring Dart.
In interviews during offseason workouts, Wilson painted an image of camaraderie and guidance within the Giants' quarterback room.
But Johnson sees that narrative as carefully crafted optics.
"The guy says he's the mentor, guiding the kid," Johnson remarked during a recent radio appearance. "Nah - I don't buy that. He's here to take over. Dart is competition. That's what it is. Not mentorship - it's a job shot."
His remarks strike a chord amid the swirling quarterback drama in New York. Giants GM Joe Schoen picked Dart 25th overall, signaling long-term investment in the rookie, while Wilson came in on a one-year deal - leaving his status in flux.
The tension between veteran acquirement and rookie development provides fertile ground for Johnson's narrative, suggesting Wilson's warm words may mask a more cutthroat reality.
Clash of generations in the QB Room
Johnson's critique reflects broader skepticism about Wilson's fit with the Giants. Earlier, NFL analyst Chris Simms openly questioned New York's decision to sign Wilson - describing it as "insurance on top of insurance," implying a lack of confidence in the veteran.
Johnson's provocations echo that sentiment, but go further - reckoning Wilson's arrival may short-circuit Dart's opportunity.
The dynamic in the locker room has become a storyline: will Russell Wilson shepherd a new era, or will his presence stall Dart's ascent? Johnson has made his stance clear - he's not buying the mentor act. For him, this is as much about legacy as it is about strategy. As training camp approaches, one thing is certain: the quarterback drama in New York is poised to intensify.
In the end, whether Wilson's mentorship proves sincere or strategic may be revealed on the field. But until then, Johnson's candor ensures the debate won't die quietly.