NFL Fines New York Giants for Concussion Protocol Violation Involving QB Jaxson Dart
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The NFL and NFL Players Association (NFLPA) have completed a joint review into the handling of the concussion protocol involving New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart during the team’s Week 6 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on October 9.
Following an in-depth investigation — which included reviewing medical reports, sideline video, and interviews with medical staff, independent evaluators, coaches, and players — both parties concluded that the team medical staff and independent medical personnel properly followed the required steps of the league’s concussion protocol during Dart’s evaluation.
However, the review also determined that the Giants violated the protocol when Head Coach Brian Daboll and running back Cam Skattebo entered the sideline medical tent before Dart’s evaluation was complete. Their presence, according to the league, created the perception of interference with the medical process — even though the investigation found no actual impact on Dart’s care or the outcome of his exam.
The NFL and NFLPA emphasized that concussion evaluations must take place without outside interference and that only authorized medical personnel — including the team physician, athletic trainer, and unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant — are permitted inside the tent or locker room during an evaluation.
In response to the violation, the New York Giants have been fined $200,000, while Coach Daboll and Skatteboreceived individual fines of $100,000 and $15,000, respectively, for conduct detrimental to the league.
The Giants have since taken “immediate remedial steps” to prevent future violations, including enhanced training for players and staff, stricter tent access protocols, and full cooperation with the league’s review process.
This incident underscores the NFL’s ongoing effort to maintain the integrity of its concussion safety procedures and ensure player health remains a top priority across all 32 teams.