Jaxson Dart to Be Drafted Much Higher Than Originally Thought After Combine Performance
Jaxson Dart, the former Ole Miss quarterback, has seen a dramatic rise in his NFL Draft stock following a standout performance at the Senior Bowl and a promising pre-draft process. Initially projected as a mid-to-late-round pick, Dart is now being discussed as a potential first-round selection, possibly even in the top 10. Here are 12 reasons why his stock has skyrocketed:
1. Impressive Senior Bowl Performance
Dart shined at the Senior Bowl, displaying strong decision-making, accuracy, and poise under pressure. His performance reportedly did more to improve his stock than any other offensive player in attendance【9】.
2. Elite Production at Ole Miss
Over three seasons, Dart established himself as the all-time leading passer at Ole Miss, capping his career with a stellar 2024 campaign in which he threw for 4,279 yards, 29 touchdowns, and just six interceptions【10】.
3. Increased Confidence from NFL Scouts
Scouts have praised Dart’s mechanics, field vision, and leadership. Some teams now consider him the No. 2 quarterback in the draft class, surpassing other highly touted prospects【9】.
4. Ability to Make NFL-Level Throws
Dart has demonstrated the ability to make tight-window throws at all levels of the field, an essential trait for success in the NFL. His deep ball has been particularly impressive【8】.
5. Poised Under Pressure
While early concerns existed about his ability to handle defensive pressure, Dart showed improvement in navigating the pocket and delivering accurate throws even when pressured【8】.
6. Athleticism and Mobility
Dart isn’t just a pocket passer—he ran for nearly 500 yards and three touchdowns in 2024. His dual-threat ability makes him an appealing option for modern NFL offenses【10】.
7. Growing Demand for Quarterbacks
Quarterbacks tend to be drafted higher than expected due to positional value. Given the number of QB-needy teams, analysts believe Dart could be taken earlier than initially projected【10】.
8. Rising Above the Competition
The 2025 quarterback class lacks the depth of previous years, and Dart has capitalized on this, solidifying his spot as one of the top three QBs in the class【9】.
9. Strong Performance in Interviews
Teams have reportedly been impressed with Dart’s football IQ and understanding of offensive schemes. His ability to process information quickly makes him an attractive prospect【9】.
10. NFL Insider Comparisons to Bo Nix
Dart’s late surge in draft rankings is being compared to Bo Nix’s rise in 2024, when he went from a second-round projection to a first-round selection. This trend suggests Dart could climb even higher before draft day【10】.
11. Versatile Skill Set for Multiple Systems
Dart has shown he can operate in both spread and pro-style offenses, making him a fit for a variety of NFL teams looking for an immediate or developmental starter【8】.
12. First-Round Lock Status
Dart started the pre-draft process as an unlikely first-rounder, but now he’s “all but a lock” to go on Day 1. Some even believe he could be a top-10 pick, depending on team needs and how the draft board falls【9】.
Conclusion
Jaxson Dart’s meteoric rise in draft stock is a testament to his hard work and ability to improve when it matters most. While he was once seen as a mid-round talent, he is now poised to be one of the first quarterbacks taken in the 2025 NFL Draft. If his trajectory continues upward at the NFL Combine, don’t be surprised if he hears his name called much earlier than expected.