Giants Coordinator Sees Mahomes-Kelce Parallel in Dart-Likely Connection
New York Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy compared the emerging chemistry between quarterback Jaxson Dart and tight end Isaiah Likely to the early partnership of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In Week 1, Dart completed 23 of 29 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns, while Likely caught all eight targets for 78 yards and two scores. The duo will look to build on that performance against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2.
The Giants' Week 1 victory over Dallas showcased a balanced offensive attack, with Dart contributing 54 rushing yards alongside his efficient passing numbers. Likely, acquired from Baltimore, demonstrated immediate value as a reliable target, converting all eight of his opportunities into receptions. Nagy's comparison carries weight given his direct involvement in developing the Mahomes-Kelce connection during his Kansas City tenure.
Week 2 presents favorable conditions for New York's offense. Los Angeles will be without Myles Garrett, who underwent knee surgery and landed on injured reserve. While Aaron Donald is expected to return, his conditioning may be limited, potentially giving the Giants' attack additional room to operate against the Rams' front seven.
This story may influence how fans and analysts evaluate young quarterback-tight end partnerships across the league, potentially raising expectations for Dart and Likely prematurely. For Giants supporters, the comparison could generate optimism about the franchise's trajectory, while opposing defenses may now devote additional attention to Likely in game planning. The narrative also reinforces the growing importance of tight ends as primary receiving threats in modern NFL offenses, a trend that could shape roster-building decisions for other teams.