Former Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is making waves as one of the most precise passers in this year’s NFL Draft, according to ESPN’s Field Yates. With a strong arm and impressive stats, Dart has caught the attention of scouts and analysts alike. But as the draft approaches, questions linger about how his game will translate to the professional level.
Setting the Stage for the NFL Draft
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, especially for quarterbacks. Headlining the class are Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, both of whom have garnered significant attention. However, the competition for the coveted QB3 spot is heating up, and Dart is a strong contender. His performance could potentially elevate him into the first round of the draft in April.
Dart’s Impressive College Career
Dart’s journey through college football has been nothing short of remarkable. After starting his career at USC, he transferred to Ole Miss, where he truly flourished. Over three seasons with the Rebels, Dart amassed an impressive 10,617 passing yards, threw for 72 touchdowns, and recorded just 22 interceptions. His completion percentage stands at a solid 65.7%, showcasing his ability to connect with receivers consistently.
As a member of the Class of 2021, Dart was a four-star recruit out of Draper, Utah, where he attended Corner Canyon High School. He was recognized as the No. 2 overall prospect in Utah, the No. 7 quarterback in his class, and the No. 42 overall prospect nationally, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. These accolades highlight his potential and the high expectations placed upon him.
Record-Breaking Performance in the Gator Bowl
Dart capped off his college career in style, leading Ole Miss to a bowl game victory over Duke. In a standout performance, he set the Gator Bowl record for the most passing yards in a single game. After the game, he expressed his gratitude, saying, “I didn’t know that. Just blessed to have the players around me that I do. These are the best teammates in the country and the best coaching staff who always put us in position to go execute and make big plays.”
His enthusiasm and appreciation for his teammates and coaches reflect the camaraderie that is so vital in college football. Dart’s ability to thrive under pressure and lead his team to victory speaks volumes about his character and skill set.
Concerns About Transitioning to the NFL
Despite his impressive college stats and accolades, there are concerns about how Dart’s game will adapt to the NFL. Yates pointed out a significant question: “What is it like playing under duress?” At Ole Miss, Dart was fortunate to have a strong offensive scheme that often shielded him from intense pressure. In the NFL, the dynamics change dramatically, and he will need to prove that he can perform well even when defenders are bearing down on him.
“Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss, you don’t have to worry about the precision passing with this guy,” Yates noted. “He has one of the most beautiful arms that you will see. Not just at the Senior Bowl this week but over the past several classes.” This praise underscores Dart’s potential, but the transition to a new scheme and the increased level of competition will be critical factors in his success.
The Road Ahead: NFL Draft Dates and Expectations
As the NFL Draft approaches, scheduled for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, all eyes will be on Dart and his fellow quarterbacks. Will he solidify his position as QB3? Can he navigate the challenges of playing at the next level? The excitement surrounding the draft is palpable, and Dart’s journey will be one to watch.
With his impressive college career and the potential to excel in the NFL, Dart has the tools to succeed. But as with any player making the leap to the professional ranks, the coming months will be crucial. He will need to demonstrate not only his passing accuracy but also his ability to handle pressure and adapt to a new system.
Final Thoughts on Jaxson Dart’s Future
Jaxson Dart has certainly left his mark on college football, and his future in the NFL looks promising. With a strong foundation built during his time at Ole Miss, he has the potential to become a standout quarterback in the league. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see how he performs in the coming months, as he prepares to take the next step in his football career.
As the countdown to the NFL Draft continues, Dart’s journey serves as a reminder of the excitement and unpredictability of college football. Will he rise to the occasion and prove the doubters wrong? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the world of college football will be watching closely.
