Since November—or even earlier—the New York Giants’ quarterback discussions have centered around two top draft prospects: Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders.
However, a new name is emerging in late January, with increasing buzz among the Giants’ community. Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is gaining traction, and Giants legend Eli Manning may have played a role in this shift.
“I like Jaxson Dart,” Manning said last week (via The New York Post on January 23), acknowledging his bias due to their shared Ole Miss connection.
“I’ve probably watched [Dart] more than anybody, just from watching Ole Miss games,” Manning added. “I’ve been around him, and [he’s] a great kid. He’s been in the same offense for three years, has been successful, and has shown growth. He seems to be able to make all the throws.”
Initially, Manning’s endorsement led fans to view Dart as a potential second-round option. However, his performance in Senior Bowl practices has significantly fueled the hype.
Jaxson Dart Drawing Increased Attention from Analysts
On January 29, New York Post reporter Paul Schwartz published an article titled, “How Jaxson Dart Could Fit in Giants’ Draft Plan: ‘Smooth Transition.’”
Shortly after, New York Post beat reporter Ryan Dunleavy admitted: “This option is growing on me.”
Dart himself has spoken about his personal connection with the Manning family, stating, “They were one of the first families to reach out to me, and it’s been special how our bond and connection has grown throughout my time [at Ole Miss].”
Although he is particularly close with Eli’s father, Archie Manning, Dart considers the entire Manning family a “huge asset” to his career.
Jaxson Dart Stands Out at Senior Bowl
Much of the excitement surrounding Dart has come from The New York Post and the Mannings, but outside voices are also taking notice.
On January 30, A-to-Z Sports college football managing editor Travis May labeled Dart the “unquestioned QB1” of this year’s Senior Bowl.
It’s worth noting that neither Ward nor Sanders are participating in the 2025 Senior Bowl. However, other potential Giants targets—such as Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel, and Ohio State’s Will Howard—are. According to May, Dart has outperformed them all.
“The quarterback play here in Mobile, Alabama this week has largely been unimpressive,” May reported, “but Dart is the lone exception.”
He highlighted Dart’s ability to drop passes “into a bucket” in one-on-one drills and his accuracy in tight windows during 11-on-11 play. May also pointed out that ESPN analyst Louis Riddick praised Dart’s intelligence and ability to execute an NFL offense while speaking on The Paul Finebaum Show.
“Jaxson Dart is simply the obvious QB1 at the Senior Bowl,” May reiterated.
He added that Milroe has struggled with accuracy, Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard has relied too much on scrambling even in practice, and Gabriel has been limited to short and intermediate throws. By contrast, Dart has stood “head and shoulders above the field.”
Where Would the Giants Draft Jaxson Dart?
While the hype is growing and the Manning family is on board, the decision ultimately lies with general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll. Entering their third season in charge, the duo likely needs to make a franchise-altering decision at quarterback to secure their long-term job security.
If they see Dart as a viable option, where should they draft him?
Most analysts agree that No. 3 overall would be too high, leaving the Giants with three main strategies:
1. Wait until No. 34 overall – hoping Dart is still available in the second round.
2. Trade down from No. 3 – acquiring additional draft capital and selecting Dart later in the first round.
3. Draft a top non-QB at No. 3, then trade back into the first round – securing Dart while gaining the benefits of a five-year rookie contract.
The last option, which Schwartz outlined in his article, is the most popular among analysts. By moving back into the first round from No. 34, the Giants would gain long-term flexibility while ensuring they land their potential quarterback of the future.
As the draft process unfolds, Jaxson Dart will be a name to watch.
