Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
NFL Draft Prospect Jaxson Dart’s Accuracy Extends Beyond the Football Field
Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is generating buzz ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft, and not just for his throwing prowess. The highly-touted prospect recently showcased his precision beyond the gridiron, impressing scouts at his pro day workout in Mississippi and then demonstrating his marksmanship on a successful hunting excursion in Georgia. The young athlete’s accuracy, it seems, translates from the football field to the hunting grounds.
Successful Georgia Turkey Hunt
Dart’s friend and fellow hunter, Tyler Jordan, announced the quarterback’s achievement on social media platform X, writing, “First [turkey emoji] for @JaxsonDart in Georgia!” The accompanying image depicted Jordan and Dart kneeling behind their prize – a notably large turkey featuring a double beard.
According to Dr. Mike Chamberlain, a wildlife expert at the University of Georgia, double-bearded toms are uncommon, with less than 10 percent of turkeys possessing this characteristic.
Online reactions were largely positive, with one commenter on X congratulating them, “Way to go fellas,” while another simply added, “Awesome!!! Congrats guys.”
Dart’s Hunting History
This successful turkey hunt is not Dart’s first foray into big game hunting. In 2023, he harvested a mountain lion, a feat that the Ole Miss football program playfully referenced on X after their victory over Penn State in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl.
Past Hunt Sparked Mixed Reactions
While the recent turkey hunt garnered widespread approval, Dart’s previous mountain lion kill elicited a more divided response. The image of the cougar, resembling Penn State’s mascot, proved controversial among some online observers.
One commenter, identifying as an Ole Miss fan, expressed discomfort, stating, “Love the win but damn…feel like I’m looking at my own cat.” Another critic went further, declaring, “I’m an Ole Miss fan and this is disgusting!” One woman described the photo as “revolting.”
Impressive NFL Draft Profile
Dart’s hunting exploits occur alongside his burgeoning NFL career prospects. Following a successful season leading the Ole Miss Rebels to a 10-3 record, including a decisive 52-20 victory over Duke in the Gator Bowl, Dart has continued to elevate his profile. He impressed NFL scouts at both the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis and his subsequent pro day.
Rising Draft Stock
As a product of the Manning Passing Academy, Dart stood out at the Combine, completing 18 of 23 passes despite some dropped catches from receivers. His strong arm and throwing accuracy were evident, with many observers noting he threw some of the most impressive passes at the event.
Initially projected as a potential third-round pick, Dart is now gaining consideration as a late first-round or early second-round selection for NFL teams seeking quarterback talent.