Jaxson Dart Sends Strong Message to 32 NFL Teams as Latest Jalen Milroe Development All But Confirms Future

Well, Lane Kiffin‘s signal caller, Jaxson Dart‘s draft stock has fluctuated wildly since the draft buzz started. He was initially projected as a Day Two pick, then rocketing up to the third spot in some mock drafts. Crazy, right? But now it’s showtime. As he is facing the draft, Dart is maximizing the pre-draft process, leaving no stone unturned. He knows the pressure and is making one final push to impress 32 NFL teams for the last time.

First Pittsburgh Steelers at pick number 21, was Jaxson Dart’s destination, but then even the Los Angeles Rams and Giants entered the buzz with the 26th and 3rd pick. And with his pro day performance, throwing for about 65 passes, he made his first-round projection even more evident. Even analysts like Benjamin Watson praised his Pro Day performance, saying, “Obviously Jaxson Dart was the headliner. I thought he threw the ball extremely well.” That’s more than enough to tell he is going to shine bright in the NFL.

But now that we are just a few days away from the draft night, what can be that factor that actually sets him apart from the rest? Who’s better than the man himself? Giving his last message to 32 NFL teams, Jaxson Dart makes his final amends on the NFL channel: “I think the biggest thing is you’re going to get somebody who cares about every little thing when he steps into the office or when he steps into a room with his teammates. You know, I think that’s one thing that can really separate great players from just good and average players is just, your accountability, your self-discipline, and consistency in everything that you do.” That’s true; the game is not just about physical strength but mental too.

Let’s be real, Jaxson Dart also has all the makings of a franchise QB in the NFL. But how? This guy completed 69.3% of his passes for 4,279 yards and 29 TDs last season. And let’s not forget he also showed dual-threat ability by adding 495 yards and three TDs on the ground. Which instantly makes him a desirable candidate for the QB-hungry team.

One among those is the New Orleans Saints, whose QB, Derek Carr, might miss the season because of a shoulder injury that threatens his availability. Even analyst Todd McShay hit X, suggesting Jaxson Dart’s name to the Saints. Look, they currently hold the No. 9, No. 40, and No. 71 picks in this year’s draft, and there’s a chance that he might go off board before the first round’s over. And missing out on a guy who dreams big, not just for himself but for the entire franchise, isn’t a smart move.

“I’m the ultimate competitor. So… I would never want to go against me. And, I know that teams, you know, that’s something they’ve always said, but I’m gonna do whatever it takes to win. And, I’m gonna win the Super Bowl.” That’s the mindset Jaxson Dart carries, and his physical tools, like arm strength, varying arm slots, and accuracy, all add up to the fact that he can be a solid NFL starter who can lead his team to the Super Bowl.

But with draft night uncertainties, is a first-round pick still on the table for him?

Jaxson Dart’s draft stock might take a serious hit

Weeks after confirming his attendance at the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Jaxson Dart quietly withdrew. The former Ole Miss quarterback, one of only three QBs invited to the green room, won’t be there. No reason was given, just days before the draft. Draft night guest lists are always revealing, and this year’s quarterbacks are particularly intriguing.

The sudden change hasn’t sidetracked Jaxson Dart from his ultimate objective. Even without attending the ceremony, the draft is still incredibly important to him. “Draft night for me will be surreal. I don’t really know how I can put words into the emotions and feelings that I’ll have in that moment,” Dart said. “It’s something that I’ve always dreamed of. I remember writing down as a preschool kid — What’s your dream? ‘To win a Super Bowl’.”

The draft night guest list is always revealing, and this year’s quarterback situation is particularly intriguing. With Jalen Milroe and Cam Ward getting invitations, while Shedeur Sanders may skip it entirely. Dart’s absence is significant. Once considered a possible first-round pick, he’s now fading from the spotlight, fueling growing doubts about his draft prospects.

And Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox didn’t mince his words either. “Two big factors make Dart a risky pick,” wrote Knox. “For one, he’s a relatively unpolished prospect with minimal experience in a pro-style offense. The bigger issue is a lack of poise and pocket that could be largely problematic at the next level.” Lane Kiffin’s mixed NFL quarterback track record—Matt Corral, Matt Leinart, and Matt Barkley—adds to the doubts surrounding Jaxson Dart.

This hesitation is understandable, but history offers a counterpoint. Aaron Rodgers faced similar skepticism, with his college coach, Jeff Tedford, shouldering the blame for past quarterback failures. Despite this, Rodgers’ talent prevailed, leading to a Hall of Fame career. Dart faces a similar challenge; he must overcome the shadow of his coach’s past and prove he’s more than just another Kiffin protégé to change the narrative.