The Last Time The Giants Drafted a QB from Ole Miss in the First Round, they beat Brady in the Superbowl.

From Manning to Dart: Giants Reload with Another Rebel Gunslinger

The New York Giants have once again turned to Ole Miss for their quarterback of the future, selecting Jaxson Dart with the 25th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This move echoes the franchise’s 2004 decision to acquire Eli Manning, another Rebel standout who led the team to two Super Bowl victories.

A New Rebel in Town

Jaxson Dart, a 6’2”, 225-pound quarterback from Kaysville, Utah, began his collegiate career at USC before transferring to Ole Miss. Comparisons to Josh Allen, under head coach Lane Kiffin, Dart flourished, culminating in a stellar 2024 season where he threw for 4,279 yards and 29 touchdowns, earning first-team All-SEC honors and setting multiple school records .

Beyond the stats, Dart’s charisma and leadership have drawn comparisons to Manning, too. In fact, Dart has cited Eli as a significant role model, stating, “He’s been a huge role model for me… I’ve really looked up to him” .

Pros of the Pick

• Arm Talent & Mobility: Dart combines a strong arm with the ability to extend plays, making him a dual threat.

• Leadership: His tenure at Ole Miss showcased his ability to rally teammates and perform under pressure.

• Mentorship Potential: With Eli Manning’s legacy looming large, Dart has a blueprint for success and a mentor to guide him.

Cons to Consider

• Transition Period: Adjusting to the NFL’s pace and complexity will be a challenge, as with any rookie quarterback.

  
  

• “Highlight hero” gene—loves to go big, sometimes when he really shouldn’t. He can force throws into tight windows Decision-making under pressure still a work in progress.

  
  

• Played in Lane Kiffin’s high-octane system, which doesn’t always translate clean to the NFL grind. And while he’s mobile, he’s not a Lamar-level scrambler.

The Giants grabbing Jaxson Dart after signing Russell Wilson screams long-term vision. They see Russ as the seasoned bridge, the veteran mentor. Dart’s the future—armed with youth, mobility, and a cannon. New York isn’t just hunting for wins—they’re building a QB factory. Let Wilson teach him poise, then unleash Dart’s wild playmaking when the torch passes. It’s chess, not checkers. And Dart’s their knight in Ole Miss armor.

The Giants’ decision to draft Dart signifies a commitment to building a dynamic offense.

Now Dart has the tools to carve out his own legacy in New York. Only time will tell if this new Rebel can lead the Giants back to Super Bowl glory.