A look at Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss football’s all-time leading passer and quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL draft.
Jaxson Dart has emerged as one of the most exciting quarterback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, and his performance at the NFL Combine only solidified his status as a potential first-round pick. The former Ole Miss signal-caller showcased his elite athleticism, arm strength, and poise under pressure, leaving scouts and analysts raving about his pro potential.
Dominating the Combine
From the moment Dart stepped onto the field at Lucas Oil Stadium, he carried himself with the confidence of a franchise quarterback. His athletic testing numbers turned heads, as he posted an impressive 40-yard dash time, ranking among the fastest quarterbacks in this year’s draft class. His agility drills were equally impressive, demonstrating his ability to escape pressure and extend plays—something he did masterfully in college.
But the real highlight of Dart’s performance came during the throwing drills. With a quick release, tight spiral, and pinpoint accuracy, he made every throw look effortless. His deep-ball accuracy was a particular standout, as he effortlessly launched passes 60 yards downfield, hitting his receivers in stride. Scouts in attendance praised his mechanics, noting how polished his footwork and throwing motion appeared compared to other quarterbacks in the class.
A Stellar College Career
Before dazzling at the Combine, Dart built an impressive résumé at Ole Miss. After transferring from USC, he quickly became the face of Lane Kiffin’s high-powered offense. In his final season, he threw for over 3,500 yards, 30 touchdowns, and fewer than 10 interceptions, showcasing his efficiency and decision-making.
Dart’s dual-threat ability also made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He rushed for nearly 500 yards and multiple touchdowns, proving that he can make plays with his legs when needed. His ability to read defenses, adjust to blitzes, and make split-second decisions under pressure set him apart from many of his peers.
How He Stacks Up Against Other QB Prospects
The 2025 NFL Draft features a deep quarterback class, with names like Quinn Ewers (Texas), Shedeur Sanders (Colorado), and Michael Penix Jr. (Washington) also drawing significant attention. However, Dart’s Combine performance may have elevated him into the top tier of prospects.
Unlike some of his competitors, Dart has the ideal combination of size (6’3″, 220 lbs), athleticism, and arm talent that NFL teams covet. His experience in an NFL-style offense under Kiffin has also given him a strong foundation in pre-snap reads and play-action passing, making him more pro-ready than some of his counterparts.
Projected Draft Stock and Best Fits
After his stellar showing at the Combine, Dart is now projected to be a late first-round or early second-round pick. Teams in need of a quarterback, such as the Minnesota Vikings, Las Vegas Raiders, or New York Giants, could view him as a potential franchise leader.
One of Dart’s biggest strengths is his adaptability. Whether in a pass-heavy system or a balanced attack, he has the skill set to thrive. His ability to extend plays and throw on the run makes him an intriguing option for offensive coordinators who want a modern, mobile quarterback.
Final Thoughts
Jaxson Dart entered the 2025 NFL Combine with a lot to prove, and he exceeded expectations. His combination of arm strength, accuracy, and athleticism makes him one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in this year’s draft. While he may not be the consensus No. 1 overall pick, his performance has certainly boosted his stock, and he could end up being one of the biggest steals of the draft.
With the right coaching and system, Dart has the tools to become a franchise quarterback at the next level. As draft day approaches, expect his name to continue climbing up draft boards, with multiple teams eager to secure his talents for the future.
