Giants’ Jaxson Dart takes a big hit from Patriots linebacker, leading to sideline scuffle

New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart took a big hit while struggling in the first quarter against the New England Patriots.

Dart, on the second drive of the game, ran to his right to escape pressure and was heading toward the first down marker. Patriots linebacker Christian Elliss came at full speed and absolutely took Dart to his bench.

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New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart passes against the New England Patriots during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Newsborough, Massachusetts. (Steven Senne/AP Photo)

Giants tight end Theo Johnson confronted Elliss, sparking a brief skirmish between the players. Giants center John Michael Schmitz Jr. was also involved in the skirmish.

NFL officials threw penalty flags during the fight. Johnson was penalized for unnecessary roughness. Elliss avoided any punishment for the hit. The penalty set the Giants back 15 yards and ultimately crushed the team’s momentum.

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New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, left, is sacked by New England Patriots linebacker Harold Landry III (2) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Newsborough, Massachusetts. (Steven Senne/AP Photo)

Dart was playing his first game since suffering a concussion two weeks ago against the Chicago Bears. He suffered the injury in a fight.

The Patriots won the game, 33-15.

Before the Patriots game he was asked if he needed to reconsider his running style.

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“I’m still getting used to this game,” Dart said. “I’m getting used to the speed at this level. In college, you can watch my video, I very rarely slipped. But this is a different beast. So, for me, obviously I have to be a little more responsible when I’m in the open field. But I felt like, honestly, I was getting better at it every week.”

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