As the NFL draft approaches, college football players are making their way into the spotlight, and for many teams, it’s a chance to find the next big star who will help them on the field. One player who’s been getting attention lately is Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart, a talented signal-caller who has been making waves during his time at Ole Miss.
Lane Kiffin, head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels, has had an up-close look at Dart’s development and potential. Kiffin, known for his keen eye for offensive talent, has had a front-row seat to Dart’s growth and has shared valuable insights into what NFL teams can expect from the young quarterback. Whether you’re an NFL scout or just a football fan, Kiffin’s thoughts provide a unique perspective on Dart’s skill set and what he brings to the table.
Dart’s Background and Rise to Prominence
Before diving into Kiffin’s analysis, it’s important to understand Dart’s journey and what’s made him an intriguing prospect. Originally a highly rated recruit out of the state of California, Dart transferred to Ole Miss after a freshman season at USC, where he played in a few games and showed flashes of potential. Since joining the Rebels, Dart has embraced Kiffin’s fast-paced, high-octane offense, showcasing his abilities both as a passer and a playmaker.
During his time at Ole Miss, Dart showed impressive improvement, with his arm strength and mobility quickly catching the eye of scouts and coaches alike. He’s developed into one of the top quarterbacks in the Southeastern Conference, leading Ole Miss to some thrilling victories and displaying both poise and grit in clutch moments.
What Lane Kiffin Thinks About Jaxson Dart’s NFL Prospects
In interviews and comments throughout the past season, Lane Kiffin has praised Dart for his development and potential. According to Kiffin, Dart has all the tools to succeed at the next level, and it’s not just his physical attributes that set him apart. Here are some key takeaways from Kiffin’s thoughts on what NFL teams can expect from Dart:
1. A Strong, NFL-Caliber Arm
One of the first things that stands out about Dart’s game is his arm strength. Kiffin, a former offensive coordinator in the NFL and a coach with a wealth of experience working with quarterbacks, has spoken highly of Dart’s ability to make all the throws required at the next level.
“Jaxson has the kind of arm strength that you need to succeed in the NFL,” Kiffin said in a recent interview. “He can throw the ball deep with accuracy, and he can fit it into tight windows. His velocity on his throws is impressive, and that’s something NFL teams will absolutely notice when they evaluate him.”
Whether it’s the deep ball or threading the needle on an intermediate route, Dart has demonstrated that he can make any throw on the field, which is a huge asset for a quarterback entering the NFL.
2. Mobility and Athleticism
While arm strength is critical for success in the NFL, Kiffin also points out that Dart’s mobility and athleticism set him apart from many quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class. He’s not just a pocket passer — Dart can extend plays with his legs, which is an essential trait for modern NFL quarterbacks.
“He’s a really good athlete,” Kiffin said. “He can extend plays and make things happen when protection breaks down. That kind of mobility is critical in today’s NFL, where quarterbacks are asked to move off their spot and make plays outside of the structure of the offense.”
Dart’s ability to escape pressure and make plays with his legs could be a game-changer at the next level. His ability to improvise when the pocket collapses could give an NFL team the flexibility to run different offensive schemes, including RPOs (run-pass options) and designed quarterback runs.
3. Poise Under Pressure
Another key quality that Kiffin believes Dart possesses is his poise under pressure. Dart has faced some intense situations in his time at Ole Miss, especially in the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in college football. Time and again, Dart has shown the ability to stay calm in the pocket and not get rattled, even in high-pressure moments.
“Jaxson has a very calm demeanor on the field,” Kiffin explained. “He doesn’t get too high or too low. That’s a trait you need as a quarterback, especially in the NFL, where the pressure can be intense and the stakes are much higher.”
That poise is reflected not just in the way Dart handles himself off the field, but also in his ability to make the right decisions when it matters most. Whether it’s a game-winning drive or a key third-down situation, Dart has demonstrated the ability to lead his team and keep his composure.
4. Developing Mental Game and Decision-Making
Kiffin also touched on Dart’s mental growth as a quarterback. As Dart continued to develop at Ole Miss, Kiffin said he saw significant improvements in his ability to read defenses and make quick decisions. This development is crucial for success at the NFL level, where split-second decisions often make the difference between a big play and a turnover.
“His understanding of the game and how defenses are trying to attack him has really grown,” Kiffin noted. “He’s doing a better job of recognizing defensive schemes, and that shows in his ability to read the field quickly and get the ball out of his hands on time.”
The ability to diagnose defenses and make fast decisions will be a critical component of Dart’s success at the next level. If he can continue to improve in this area, it will increase his chances of thriving in the NFL.
5. Leadership and Work Ethic
Kiffin also emphasized Dart’s leadership and work ethic as two more attributes that will serve him well in the NFL. Dart’s teammates have consistently praised his dedication to improving and his willingness to put in the work to get better every day. He’s also shown a natural ability to lead by example and rally his teammates, even when things aren’t going perfectly.
“Jaxson is a competitor,” Kiffin said. “He works hard every day, and he holds himself to a high standard. He’s also a guy that teammates can look to for leadership, especially in tough situations.”
For NFL teams looking for a quarterback who can take charge both on and off the field, Dart’s leadership will be a valuable asset.
What Can NFL Teams Expect?
NFL teams can expect a highly talented quarterback in Jaxson Dart, one who possesses the physical tools to succeed at the next level. His arm strength, mobility, and poise under pressure make him a dynamic and versatile prospect. With continued development in his mental game and decision-making, Dart could become a key figure for an NFL team in the near future.
Lane Kiffin’s insights make it clear that Dart is a quarterback with tremendous potential. As NFL scouts and coaches continue to evaluate the top quarterbacks for the 2025 draft, Dart’s stock is likely to continue rising. Whether he’s picked in the first round or as a potential developmental quarterback, one thing is certain: NFL teams will be paying close attention to what Jaxson Dart can bring to the table.
As Kiffin put it, “He’s got everything you want in a quarterback. Now it’s just about continuing to grow, and I’m confident he will.” That confidence in Dart’s potential will surely resonate with NFL teams looking for a quarterback who can be the future face of their franchise.
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