Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Jaxson Dart Surges Into Top 10 in New NFL Draft Projection

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By J.C. Shelton | Last updated Apr 6, 2025 6:17 PM ET

Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is gaining first-round steam as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches.

This year's quarterback class is considered as a thin group with Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders at the top. There are more questions than answers beyond the pair of headliners, and Dart could be a viable option.

The former USC transfer is the Rebels' all-time leading passer after putting together a career year as a senior. Dart led the SEC, completing 69.3% of his passes for 4,279 yards with 32 total touchdowns.

Through four college seasons, Dart amassed 11,970 passing yards with 81 touchdowns to 27 interceptions. Additionally, the dual-threat star racked up 1,541 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns.

According to a new mock draft from Chad Reuter of NFL.com, Dart is projected to be the third quarterback off the board, landing to the New York Jets at No. 7 overall.

The new regime under head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey elected to part ways with future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers. Filling the void in free agency, Justin Fields is expected to hold the keys of the offense in 2025.

"I don't doubt the Jets believe in Justin Fields, but I also think that won't necessarily preclude them from drafting a QB," Reuter wrote. "Competition between Fields and Dart will help the team figure out if either player can become Gang Green's long-term answer."

Even if New York ultimately chooses a different direction with the seventh pick, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Dart go elsewhere in the first round given the recent hype and the quarterback class.

The 2025 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: