Jaxson Dart injury update: Giants HC Mike Kafka shares rookie QB's status for Week 12 game vs Lions

New York Giants interim coach Mike Kafka gave an update Wednesday regarding the availability of rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart as the team prepares for Sunday’s matchup in Detroit.

Kafka stepped into the lead role after New York dismissed coach Brian Daboll on Nov. 10. The move followed another season buried early in the standings.

Speaking before practice at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center, Kafka outlined where Dart stands inside the NFL’s concussion return-to-play system.

"He's in a non-contact day. He is still in the protocol, like in that phasing of it, and he'll continue to progress through it," Kafka said. "It just depends on how each day goes. Assuming it goes well, he's trending towards being able to play Sunday if there's no setbacks ... That would be the fair plan for sure."

Dart participated in a limited capacity on Wednesday. The rookie has been sidelined since exiting in Week 10 against the Chicago Bears with a head injury, his fourth concussion evaluation dating back to preseason.

Mike Kafka would 'like Jaxson Dart to play' on Sunday against Lions

NFL: Green Bay Packers at New York Giants - Source: Imagn

Mike Kafka said that the medical team will make the decision on whether Jaxson Dart suits up against the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

"If he's healthy and cleared to go, then I'd like Jaxson Dart to play," Kafka told reporters. "It's only if he's healthy and ready to go, and that's based on what the doctors have to say."

Veteran Jameis Winston filled in during last week’s 27-20 loss to Green Bay, throwing for 201 yards and an interception in the fourth quarter.

Dart has thrown 10 touchdown passes with three interceptions while completing nearly 63% of his attempts for 1,417 yards. He has also rushed for 317 yards and seven touchdowns.

Lions coach Dan Campbell said Wednesday that they expect Dart to be available and are preparing accordingly. He praised the rookie’s energy and playmaking ability.

Dart has been advised by team personnel and external voices to be more calculated when running the football due to the physical toll he has taken this year. Kafka said he was impressed with the rookie’s preparation while sidelined and noted that Dart remained involved in game-planning during the week he missed.