Jaxson Dart, the starting quarterback for the Ole Miss Rebels, has forged a meaningful relationship with former NFL star Eli Manning, a connection that has significantly influenced Dart’s collegiate career.
Building a Strong Relationship
Since joining Ole Miss, Dart and Manning have developed a close bond. Dart expressed his admiration for Manning, stating, “Me and Eli have been able to grow a strong relationship through my time at Ole Miss.” He added that Manning has been a “really good role model” and someone he “really look[s] up to.”
Chasing Records and Legacy
Manning’s legacy at Ole Miss includes numerous records, such as most career passing yards (10,119), touchdowns (81), and completions (829). Dart acknowledged these achievements, noting that when entering the program, he “definitely [had] the thought in the back of [his] mind that [he] always want[ed] to chase that.” He emphasized the importance of striving to “chase after the best,” highlighting Manning’s exemplary career as a benchmark.
Record-Breaking Achievement
In a significant milestone, Dart surpassed Manning’s passing records during the 2024 season. In the Egg Bowl against Mississippi State, Dart achieved 143 passing yards, bringing his career total to 10,213 yards, thus becoming Ole Miss’s all-time leading passer. This accomplishment was celebrated by fans and marked a new chapter in the program’s history.
Manning’s Support and Encouragement
Manning has been supportive of Dart’s achievements. After Dart broke his passing record, Manning recorded a message expressing his congratulations and support. He stated, “I think this year, I hope it’s different. I think it’s some true excitement for good reasons, and a lot of it is Jaxson Dart.” Manning’s endorsement underscores the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two quarterbacks.
Looking Ahead
Dart’s relationship with Manning continues to influence his approach to the game. He remains focused on furthering the legacy of Ole Miss football, drawing inspiration from Manning’s success and leadership. As Dart’s collegiate career progresses, the mentorship and friendship with Manning are expected to play a pivotal role in his development both on and off the field.
In summary, the bond between Jaxson Dart and Eli Manning exemplifies the enduring impact of mentorship in sports. Manning’s guidance and Dart’s dedication have collectively propelled Ole Miss football to new heights, with Dart’s record-breaking achievements serving as a testament to their successful collaboration.
