As the New York Giants gear up for the upcoming NFL season, one player is already feeling the intensity of the league before even stepping foot on the field. That player is none other than Jaxson Dart, the highly-touted rookie quarterback who was drafted by the Giants in the first round of this year’s draft. And it’s all thanks to veteran linebacker Brian Burns, who is making sure Dart is prepared for the speed and physicality of the NFL.
Burns, who is entering his fourth season with the Giants, has taken it upon himself to mentor the young quarterback and help him adjust to the demands of the professional level. And he’s not taking it easy on Dart, as he wants to make sure the rookie is ready to hit the ground running when training camp begins.
“Jaxson is a talented player, there’s no doubt about that. But the NFL is a whole different ball game and I want to make sure he’s prepared for it,” Burns said in an exclusive interview. “I remember my rookie year, it was a shock to the system. The speed, the physicality, everything was on a different level. So I want to make sure Jaxson is ready for that and can make an immediate impact for our team.”
And Burns is certainly putting Dart through the paces. The two have been working out together every day, with Burns pushing the young quarterback to his limits. From weightlifting sessions to on-field drills, Burns is making sure Dart is getting a taste of what it takes to succeed in the NFL.
“I have to give credit to Brian, he’s been a great mentor to me so far,” Dart said. “He’s been showing me the ropes and helping me adjust to the speed of the game. It’s been tough, but I know it’s going to pay off in the long run.”
But it’s not just about the physical aspect of the game. Burns is also imparting his knowledge and experience on Dart, teaching him the ins and outs of the Giants’ playbook and helping him understand the complexities of the NFL game.
“Brian has been like a coach to me. He’s been breaking down film with me, going over plays and helping me understand the nuances of the game,” Dart shared. “It’s been a huge help and I’m grateful to have someone like him to learn from.”
And it’s not just on the field where Burns is making an impact on Dart. The veteran linebacker has also been giving the rookie advice on how to handle the pressures and expectations that come with being a first-round draft pick.
“I’ve been in Jaxson’s shoes before, so I know what it’s like to have all eyes on you and the pressure to perform,” Burns said. “I’ve been telling him to just focus on his game and not worry about the outside noise. As long as he puts in the work and stays true to himself, he’ll be just fine.”
The Giants’ coaching staff has taken notice of Burns’ efforts and are impressed with the leadership he has shown in taking Dart under his wing.
“Brian has been a great mentor to Jaxson and we couldn’t be happier with the progress he’s making,” head coach Joe Judge said. “He’s setting a great example for our younger players and we’re excited to see how Jaxson continues to develop under his guidance.”
As the Giants’ training camp approaches, Dart is feeling more confident and prepared thanks to Burns’ guidance. And the veteran linebacker is confident that the rookie will make a smooth transition to the NFL.
“Jaxson has all the tools to be a great quarterback in this league. He just needs a little guidance and I’m happy to provide that for him,” Burns said. “I have no doubt that he’ll be ready to go when the season starts and I can’t wait to see him in action.”
With Burns’ help, Dart is already feeling the speed of the NFL and is on track to make a big impact for the Giants in his rookie season. And as the team looks to make a push for the playoffs, having a mentor like Burns will only benefit the young quarterback and the entire team.
