The New York Giants added quarterback Jake Haener to their 53-man roster on Wednesday, restoring a third passer to the active list ahead of Sunday’s road game.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that New York signed Haener from the practice squad. The move returns him to the active roster after a brief stay on the developmental squad.
The Giants now carry three quarterbacks. That arrangement lets the club name either J.J. McCarthy or Haener as the emergency third quarterback on game day under league rules.
Haener first reached the active roster in late September after starter Jaxson Dart suffered a season-ending left knee injury. Dart underwent surgery to address damage to his meniscus, MCL and PCL. His ACL remained intact. Recovery estimates ran four to six months.
The Giants waived Haener days later and returned him to the practice squad once they completed a trade for McCarthy. The transaction cleared a roster spot while keeping Haener available for elevation.
New York acquired McCarthy from the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 28 in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round draft pick. The deal came less than a week after Dart’s injury was confirmed as season-ending.
McCarthy, the 10th overall selection in the 2024 draft, started 10 games for Minnesota in 2025. He completed 140 of 243 passes (57.6 percent) for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Haener, drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round (127th overall) in 2023, has limited regular-season experience. He appeared in eight games with one start during the 2024 season.
In that action he completed 18 of 39 passes (46.2 percent) for 226 yards, one touchdown and one interception. His passer rating stood at 62.6. He also rushed 11 times for 22 yards.
The 27-year-old signed with the Giants in mid-August, was waived at final cuts and rejoined the practice squad. He was active but did not play in the team’s Week 4 victory.
With Haener back on the 53, the Giants hold options if McCarthy needs more time to absorb the playbook or if an in-game injury occurs. Jameis Winston remains the starter.
New York enters the week at 3-1. The club opened with a 28-20 win over Dallas, lost 28-6 at the Los Angeles Rams, then beat Tennessee 12-7 and Arizona 36-24.
The Giants average 20.5 points and 283.3 yards per game. Their defense ranks ninth in the league, allowing 314.3 yards per contest.
They travel to face the Washington Commanders (1-3) on Sunday at Northwest Stadium. Washington averages 22.0 points and 314.8 yards per game. The series dates to 1932, with the Giants holding a 107-74-5 edge.
