EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New York Giants are done experimenting. After a disastrous 4-13 campaign and the mid-season firing of Brian Daboll, the franchise is swinging for the fences. Multiple reports confirm the Giants are finalizing a massive five-year, $100 million deal to bring Super Bowl-winning coach John Harbaugh to the Big Apple.
But while the ink dries on the contract, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky cautions that the coach is only half the equation. The real question mark stands under center.
The Dart Variable
Harbaugh isn’t walking into a blank slate. He’s inheriting Jaxson Dart, the 25th overall pick in the 2025 Draft. Speaking on NFL Live, Orlovsky didn’t mince words about the pressure facing the sophomore quarterback.
“How much [Jaxson] Dart progresses and develops will really determine if this is as good as we expect it to be.” — Dan Orlovsky, ESPN
Orlovsky’s analysis hits the nerve of the Giants’ offseason. Dart’s rookie year was a rollercoaster—2,272 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and flashes of brilliance marred by inconsistency. The talent is undeniable, but the “Harbaugh Effect” relies on a QB who can execute a complex system. If Dart takes the leap, this hire looks like a stroke of genius. If he stagnates, even Harbaugh might struggle to right the ship.
Why Harbaugh? Why Now?
Ownership wanted stability, and they paid a premium for it. Harbaugh brings 18 years of Ravens grit and a proven track record of developing quarterbacks. Remember what he did with Lamar Jackson? The Giants are betting $100 million that he can replicate that magic with Dart’s dual-threat skill set.
Playoff Implications / What’s Next
Expect the official announcement within the next 24 hours. Once the press conference wraps, the focus shifts to the Draft. With the No. 5 overall pick, Harbaugh and GM Joe Schoen (if he stays) have a prime opportunity to grab a weapon for Dart—potentially Ohio State WR Carnell Tate—to ensure their young QB has no excuses in Year 2.
