Jaxson Dart Emerges as a Potential First-Round QB in 2025 NFL Draft

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Jaxson Dart of Ole Miss has gained traction as a significant contender for a first-round selection, ideally nestled between the top quarterbacks Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders. Several betting odds reflect Dart's position, with him being a -400 favorite to go in the first round, although he faces considerable odds at +350 for making it into the Top 10. These betting lines indicate that analysts view Dart's draft placement likely between the 11th and 24th picks, where teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers (at pick 21) are noteworthy candidates to snatch up a quarterback. Dart's football resume speaks volumes; his impressive collegiate stats illustrate why scouts are paying attention: he threw for 4,279 yards, amassed 29 touchdowns against merely six interceptions, and earned a first-team All-SEC nod last season. With a height of 6’2” and weighing 223 pounds, Dart's physical attributes further enhance his appeal. While Dart steps into the limelight, discussion around Shedeur Sanders appears to take a downward turn as many evaluators express skepticism regarding his first-round value, leading to speculation he may fall out of the Top 10. In contrast, Dart's name is frequently ascendant in recent mock drafts—a notable placement as observed by USA Today’s Tyler Dragon. He posits that a likely scenario has the New York Giants using their final first-round pick to trade up for Dart. However, warnings from scouts remind us that there is a stark difference between being rated as first-round talent and actually holding a first-round draft position. Analysts explain there's typically a cap of around 15 players with an authentic first-round grade, despite 32 picks in total. As the quarterbacks continue to draw attention, the stakes are volatile; multiple insiders predict Dart could be the second quarterback drafted behind Cam Ward, coupled with the notion that many teams may opt to draft quarterbacks not quite considered first-round caliber. Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin reportedly holds Dart in high regard, which has incited thoughts of a curious choice if the organization decides to draft him. Interestingly, with teams like the Saints also in pursuit, it sets a competitive stage for Dart in the draft. Given the nuanced evaluation landscape of Dart, there are mixed feelings about him emerging as a top selection. The likelihood that he might not fully translate into an immediate franchise quarterback only adds further layers of suspense about the 2025 Draft, signaling an influx of strategic decisions involving quarterback placements and a ripple effect for multiple franchises. In commentary, it’s fascinating to watch how Dart is pivoting into this draft positioning. If he navigates his way to a strong team that recognizes his potential and provides the right developmental support, we could see Dart become a significant figure in the NFL sooner than expected. Moreover, teams that hesitate may find themselves reassessing their draft strategies, particularly with two high-profile quarterbacks likely to monopolize attention. The dynamics leading up to the draft suggest excitement and unpredictability, hallmark traits of NFL Draft season.