The New York Giants have changed their starting quarterback after their loss to the New Orleans Saints, with the late-game performance prompting a decision on the position.
Jameis Winston moves to the backup role as the Giants prepare for their next game against the Houston Texans.
Giants QB mobility could give offense more options
The New York Giants have named J.J. McCarthy their starting quarterback in place of Jameis Winston following McCarthy’s performance against the New Orleans Saints. McCarthy entered late in the game and helped the Giants mount a comeback attempt, earning the starting role for their October 25 matchup against the Houston Texans.
McCarthy completed 11 of 21 passes for 243 yards, one touchdown and one interception against New Orleans. He entered in the fourth quarter with the Giants trailing 34–10 and led three scoring drives. The Giants cut into the deficit, but their final attempt ended when they failed to gain a first down at the Saints’ 14-yard line. New Orleans won 34–27.
Winston had started four consecutive games after Jaxson Dart suffered a knee injury. Against the Saints, Winston completed 14 of 26 passes for 152 yards and one touchdown, but threw two interceptions in the second half. During his four starts, the Giants recorded two wins, one loss and one tie. In their 27–27 tie against the Washington Commanders, Winston threw for 326 yards and three touchdowns without an interception.
Winston will move into the backup role after starting during Dart’s absence, while McCarthy will take over as the starter against Houston.
McCarthy joined the Giants earlier this season. The former 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft spent the early part of his NFL career in Minnesota. He started 10 games in 2025 and finished with 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
McCarthy has also discussed his relationship with Dart, who has helped him learn the Giants’ offensive system. Asked whether he had spoken with Dart since being named the starter, McCarthy said, “I talked to him today, just normal conversation. We’re both just rooting for each other.”
“And like I told him, I’m doing the same thing that you want, is help win the football games for this organization and do everything we can and be the best versions of ourselves every day to help the collective. It’s been great conversation. I love Jaxson. We’ve worked with the same QB coach out in California for a long time so we have a prior relationship.”
Dart has helped McCarthy become more comfortable in the offense and has served as a resource as he prepares for his first start.
Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said McCarthy’s athletic ability could give the Giants more flexibility when plays break down. His movement skills may allow the offense to incorporate concepts previously used with Dart, while adding another dimension to both the running and passing attack.
The Texans enter the matchup at 2-4 after winning their last two games. McCarthy is set to make his first start for the Giants on October 25, with Winston serving as the backup.
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