Former NFL player and ESPN analyst Louis Riddick told college football insider Paul Finebaum that he has been impressed by Ole Miss Rebels starting quarterback Jaxson Dart this week ahead of the Senior Bowl. While appearing on “The Paul Finebaum Show,” Riddick outlined how Dart has continually developed over the past few years and is “talented enough to do all the things that they ask him to do at the NFL level.”
For the Rebels this year, Dart was impressive and a major reason behind their 10-3 record while playing in the SEC. On an individual level, he amassed 4,279 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and only six interceptions on the campaign. In addition, he had 495 yards and three touchdowns as a runner.
What Did Louis Riddick Say About Jaxson Dart?
Riddick made clear that Dart was improving each day ahead of the Senior Bowl, something that has proven to him that Dart can succeed at the NFL level. Finebaum reposted the clip on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).
“It’s getting better and better and better, and when it’s clean, when he’s sure of what the call is, and everyone is doing their job, Paul, you see him do the kind of things you saw him do at Ole Miss and why he’s the all-time passing leader in Ole Miss history. And, he can push the ball wherever you need it to, and he can do all the things you need an NFL-caliber quarterback to do,” Riddick stated.
Jaxson Dart has impressed @LRiddickESPN at the @seniorbowl this week: pic.twitter.com/ZK6fx8L7bU
— Paul Finebaum (@finebaum) January 29, 2025
Dart’s 2025 NFL Draft Projection
As alluded to, Dart is an exciting prospect who can succeed at the NFL level. In Pro Football Network’s latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft, Dart was selected No. 69 overall by the Seattle Seahawks through a trade with the New England Patriots.
“Dart is a natural leader and playmaker. He is known for elevating his team with pinpoint passes, sharp reads, and trust in his receivers. He excels at exploiting man coverage, finding matchups, and winning 50/50 plays.”
In many ways, Dart being drafted by the Seahawks does make sense for everyone involved. Though he has revitalized his career, it is hard to imagine that Geno Smith is the long-term quarterback of the future for the Seahawks. At 34 years old right now, Smith would be a great mentor for the young QB Dart, as he knows the ups and downs of the NFL rollercoaster.
“While his game has a few flaws, he sometimes locks in downfield too long, risking ball security. Those daring throws into tight coverage might not always succeed against NFL corners, but with his full skill set, Dart has the tools to thrive at the next level.”
For Dart, he would be entering a young and exciting offensive unit that features standout running back Kenneth Walker III, emerging wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and proven superstar wide receiver DK Metcalf. As a result, should Dart be drafted by the Seahawks and live up to expectations, the offensive unit has a chance to be one of the best in the NFC for years to come.