ESPN analyst calls for Giants to draft Fernando Mendoza or Dante Moore over building up Jaxson Dart

Jeff Hauser

ESPN analyst calls for Giants to draft Fernando Mendoza or Dante Moore over building up Jaxson Dart image

Former Alabama quarterback and ESPN analyst Greg McElroy believes the New York Giants should consider a pivot at quarterback. Even after spending a first-round pick on Jaxson Dart just one year ago, is it time to move on? 

During Tuesday's episode of Get Up, McElroy said he would prioritize the long-term upside of college quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore rather than committing fully to Dart.

“Right now, I would go with the upside that you get with Dante Moore and Fernando Mendoza,” McElroy said. He called Dart a “high-floor prospect” with mechanical inconsistencies that may limit his ceiling.

The Giants selected Dart with the No. 25 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. After beginning the season behind Russell Wilson, Dart took over as the starter in Week 4 and has shown flashes, particularly as a dual-threat runner. In Sunday’s win over the Las Vegas Raiders, Dart completed 22 of 30 passes for 207 yards and added 48 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

But McElroy raised concerns about Dart’s durability and processing speed, noting his physical style has already resulted in a concussion. He questioned whether Dart can elevate those around him, as he did at Ole Miss, or whether he needs an elite supporting cast.

McElroy compared Dart’s path to quarterbacks such as Brock Purdy and Jalen Hurts, while maintaining Mendoza and Moore offer greater long-term upside.

With New York potentially drafting near the top in 2026, McElroy’s comments add to a growing debate over the Giants’ future at quarterback. Obviously, there will need to be a conversation with a new head coach coming in soon. 

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Staff Writer