Russell Wilson: Playing Tonight | Did He Get Benched? | Was He Benched?

The questions are swirling among NFL fans tonight: Is Russell Wilson playing? Has he been benched? And if so, why?

In 2025, the veteran quarterback’s situation with the New York Giants has become one of the most talked-about narratives in the league. After opening the season as the starter, Wilson now finds himself sidelined in favor of rookie signal-caller Jaxson Dart. In this article, we’ll dig into every angle: Wilson’s status tonight, what led to his benching, the reactions, and what’s next.

1. Current Status: Is Russell Wilson Playing Tonight?

As of the Week 6 Thursday Night Football matchup between the Giants and the Eagles, Russell Wilson is not playing tonight. 

The Giants have elected to go with Jaxson Dart as their starting quarterback for at least the third straight game, making Wilson inactive for performance reasons—not due to injury. 

This benching in Week 6 follows prior decisions by the coaching staff to sit Wilson in Weeks 4 and 5. 

So, to answer the headline question: No, he is not playing tonight.

2. Why Was Russell Wilson Benched?

To fully understand tonight’s roster decision, we need to trace how Wilson wound up on the bench.

A. Struggling Performance Early in the Season

Wilson began the 2025 campaign as the New York Giants’ starting quarterback after signing a one-year, $10.5 million contract.  But results were disappointing:

• The Giants started the season 0–3 under his stewardship. 

• His passing metrics and ability to push the offense downfield lagged expectations. 

• In multiple games, fans grew frustrated, chanting “We want Dart” during a loss to the Chiefs. 

The performance drop-off convinced the coaching staff that a change was needed. Russell Wilson benched tonight.

B. Brian Daboll’s Coaching Decision

Head Coach Brian Daboll made the pivotal call to bench Wilson in favor of his rookie quarterback. He has accepted responsibility for the decision.

“I did it. Not going to get into the specifics,” Daboll said. “I think it’s the right thing for our football team, and that’s why I’m doing it.” 

This move signals a willingness to pivot to the future, even if that means sidelining a veteran with an illustrious resume.

C. Jaxson Dart’s Emergence

Dart, the Giants’ first-round rookie quarterback, was given the starting nod in Week 4 and delivered a spark:

• He led the team to its first win of the season vs. the Chargers. 

• While not flawless, Dart showed poise, mobility, and upside that made the benching more defensible. 

Essentially, the Giants are betting on the youth and potential of Dart over continuing with Wilson’s declining trajectory.

3. Reactions, Backlash, & Public Opinion

The benching of a high-profile quarterback like Wilson draws attention from all sides—fans, analysts, media, and Wilson himself.

A. Fan and Media Backlash

During Wilson’s brief reentry into a game (when he relieved Dart during a concussion check), the crowd booed.  On a second snap, Wilson spiked the ball, and the boos intensified.

Media outlets have been harsh in their take:

• Some analysts suggest Wilson should retire given his lackluster performance. 

• Others debate whether the Giants are scouting trade partners for him. 

• Pundits see this as a watershed moment in Wilson’s career—a turning point away from stardom. 

B. Wilson’s Response

Wilson has responded with professionalism and humility. He’s made clear that:

• He accepts his role as backup without demanding a trade. 

• He remains committed to the organization, emphasizing he wants to help the team win in whatever capacity. 

• He’s leaned on family and faith during this period. 

One of his recent moves was sharing a supportive message rooted in gratitude, showing a calm, steady public front. 

4. What Does This Mean for Russell Wilson’s Future?

Wilson’s benching extends beyond just tonight—it signals a new chapter in his NFL journey.

A. Backup Role or Exit Route?

While he’s currently under contract and remains with the Giants as QB2, the trajectory is uncertain. His future options include:

1. Stay as a veteran backup, waiting for opportunities or injury to Dart.

2. Request a trade, if a team in need of experience shows interest. 

3. Retire, as some analysts believe his effectiveness has waned. 

B. Legacy Implications

For a player who has achieved so much—including Super Bowl wins, Pro Bowls, and Hall of Fame talk—this phase could reshape how his career is remembered. A smooth exit, mentoring, or redemption arc could help preserve his legacy.

C. What’s Next for the Giants?

The Giants are clearly investing in Dart and the future of their offense. The decision to bench Wilson so early suggests the team doesn’t see rerunning the Wilson era as sustainable. 

If Dart thrives, it would validate the move. If he struggles, Wilson might still be needed—but the pressure will be immense.

5. Key Timeline: From Starter to Benched

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. Why isn’t Russell Wilson playing tonight?
A1. He has been benched by the New York Giants and is inactive for performance reasons—not due to injury. 

Q2. When was Wilson benched?
A2. Wilson was first benched beginning Week 4 and has remained on the bench through Weeks 5 and 6. Russell Wilson benched tonight.

Q3. Who is starting instead of Wilson?
A3. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart has been named the starter and is leading the Giants’ offense. 

Q4. Was Wilson injured?
A4. No. According to reports, Wilson’s benching is NOT injury-related—he is healthy but left out by coaching decision. 

Q5. Will Russell Wilson request a trade or retire?
A5. As of now, Wilson has indicated he will not request a trade and intends to remain with the Giants in a supportive role. However, analysts remain split on whether he may retire if his role diminishes further. 

Q6. Could Wilson regain the starting job?
A6. It’s possible—if Dart struggles or is injured. But based on current momentum, the coaching staff seems committed to Dart for the present. 

Q7. How are fans reacting?
A7. The reaction has been mixed. Some fans have booed Wilson during limited appearances, and chants of “We want Dart” have been heard in earlier games.