Jaxson Dart's appearance at a Donald Trump rally in upstate New York drew swift criticism from his own locker room on Saturday morning. Abdul Carter, the Giants linebacker and fellow first-round draft pick from 2025, took to social media to question the quarterback's decision to introduce the president at the campaign event.
"Thought this sh!t was AI, what we doing man," Carter posted on X, expressing his bewilderment at the move.
Dart had taken the stage Friday at Rockland Community College in Suffern to introduce Trump at a rally supporting New York congressman Mike Lawler's reelection bid. It marked Trump's first New York rally since the 2024 election cycle. The quarterback kept his remarks brief, telling the crowd it was an honor before introducing the president.
"Big Blue Nation, it's a pleasure to be here. Go, Big Blue!" Dart said from the podium. "What an honor. What a privilege it is to be here. Without further ado, I'm grateful, I'm honored, and I'm pleased to introduce the 45th and 47th President of the United States of America, President Donald J Trump."
Trump responded warmly to his introduction, calling Dart a "future Hall of Famer" and a "beautiful guy" with "a lot of talent." The president went on to compare the quarterback's physique to tree trunks.
Carter and Dart were both drafted by the Giants in the 2025 draft class. Carter, selected third overall, started every game last season for the struggling franchise. Dart, picked 25th, began the year as Russell Wilson's backup before moving into the starting lineup and starting 12 games. The Giants finished the season 4-13, last in their division, and are now adjusting to new head coach John Harbaugh.
The quarterback's political appearance also drew notice from another NFL player. Cam Jordan of the New Orleans Saints reposted video of Dart with Trump and wrote "sounds bout ole miss," referencing Dart's college at the University of Mississippi.
Author James Rodriguez: "When your own defensive captain is calling you out on social media the morning after, you've probably stepped into something bigger than a campaign stop."
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