Jaxson Dart’s transfer decision is influenced by guidance from his father and an NFL star.
In early 2022, quarterback Jaxson Dart encountered a watershed moment in his scholastic career. Following a strong freshman season at the University of Southern California (USC), changes in the program encouraged him to explore transferring. During this vital era, Dart sought advice from two important people: his father, Brandon Dart, and NFL wide receiver A.J. Brown.
Parental Wisdom: Brandon Dart’s Perspective
Brandon Dart, a former safety for the University of Utah, was instrumental in influencing Jaxson’s football career. Brandon, having faced the trials of collegiate athletics himself, gave his son great counsel. He emphasised the significance of choosing a program that will not only highlight Jaxson’s abilities but also prepare him for the demands of professional football. Brandon’s advice was based on direct experience, recognising the subtleties of college football dynamics and the need of making sound judgements during such changes.
Professional Counselling: A.J. Brown’s Perspective
A.J. Brown, an Ole Miss alumnus and Philadelphia Eagles outstanding wide receiver, also shared his thoughts with Dart. Brown emphasised the advantages of playing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), which is known for its competitive atmosphere and NFL-caliber talent. He offered personal tales from his time at Ole Miss, highlighting how the program and conference prepared him for the professional league. Brown’s views presented Dart with a player’s perspective on the benefits of competing at Ole Miss, particularly in terms of exposure and development chances.
The Decision: Choosing Ole Miss
Dart considered moving to an SEC program after consulting with his father and A.J. Brown. Given the SEC’s reputation for high-level competition, he agreed that success there could make the transfer to the NFL easier. This realisation, combined with the advice he got, prompted Dart to commit to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in January 2022. In reflecting on his decision, Dart showed appreciation for other institutions that recruited him, including Oklahoma, but eventually concluded that Ole Miss provided the greatest platform for his development and future goals.
Looking ahead: Dart’s aspirations
Dart has grown significantly on and off the pitch since his arrival at Ole Miss. His decision to transfer, influenced by reliable mentors, has placed him well in a competitive program. As he begins his undergraduate career, Dart is focused on taking advantage of the chances available at Ole Miss to realise his dream of playing in the NFL. His father and A.J. Brown’s encouragement and counsel have been invaluable in navigating his career, emphasising the value of mentorship and informed decision-making in collegiate athletics.