The University of Mississippi, fondly known as Ole Miss, has a storied history of producing exceptional football talent. Among these, several Ole Miss quarterbacks have made their way to the NFL, leaving an indelible mark on professional football. This article highlights five notable quarterbacks who transitioned from being college stars to pursuing their dreams in the NFL.
1. Eli Manning
College Career at Ole Miss
Eli Manning, one of the most celebrated Ole Miss quarterbacks, played for the Rebels from 2000 to 2003. During his college career, Manning threw for 10,119 yards and 81 touchdowns, setting several school records. He was awarded the Maxwell Award in 2003, given to the nation’s top all-around player, and was also a finalist for the Heisman Trophy.
NFL Career
Eli Manning was the first overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, selected by the San Diego Chargers and subsequently traded to the New York Giants. Manning’s NFL career spanned 16 seasons, all with the Giants, where he amassed 57,023 passing yards and 366 touchdowns.
Key highlights include leading the Giants to two Super Bowl victories (2007 and 2011) and being named Super Bowl MVP both times. His consistent play, durability, and clutch performances cemented his legacy as one of the NFL’s most reliable quarterbacks.
2. Archie Manning
College Career at Ole Miss
Archie Manning, the father of Eli and Peyton Manning, was a standout quarterback for Ole Miss from 1968 to 1970. He threw for 4,753 yards and 31 touchdowns during his college career. Known for his versatility, Manning also rushed for 823 yards and 25 touchdowns. He earned All-American honors and is remembered as one of the most dynamic players in Ole Miss history.
NFL Career
Archie Manning was drafted second overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 1971 NFL Draft. Despite playing for struggling teams during his 14-year career, Manning showcased incredible talent and leadership. He passed for 23,911 yards and 125 touchdowns in the NFL, earning two Pro Bowl selections. While his teams never achieved postseason success, Manning’s contributions solidified his reputation as a trailblazer for Ole Miss quarterbacks in the NFL.
3. Chad Kelly
College Career at Ole Miss
Chad Kelly transferred to Ole Miss after starting his college career at Clemson. From 2015 to 2016, he played two seasons for the Rebels, throwing for 6,800 yards and 50 touchdowns. Known for his strong arm and mobility, Kelly also rushed for 841 yards and 15 touchdowns. In 2015, he led Ole Miss to a Sugar Bowl victory, earning MVP honors.
NFL Career
Chad Kelly was drafted in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. Injuries and off-field issues limited his opportunities in the NFL. He spent time on the Broncos’ roster and later joined the Indianapolis Colts, but he never started a regular-season game. Despite a short NFL stint, Kelly remains a memorable figure among Ole Miss quarterbacks.
4. Romaro Miller
College Career at Ole Miss
Romaro Miller was Ole Miss’s starting quarterback from 1997 to 2000. Over his college career, Miller threw for 6,713 yards and 43 touchdowns. He was known for his composure in high-pressure situations and remains one of the most consistent quarterbacks in Rebels history.
NFL Career
While Romaro Miller went undrafted in the NFL, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2001. Miller’s NFL career was brief, as he primarily served as a backup quarterback and did not record any significant stats. Despite his limited professional experience, his leadership at Ole Miss left a lasting impression on the program.
5. Jordan Ta’amu
College Career at Ole Miss
Jordan Ta’amu transferred to Ole Miss from junior college and played for the Rebels in 2017 and 2018. During his two seasons, he threw for 5,600 yards and 30 touchdowns while rushing for 507 yards and 10 touchdowns. Ta’amu’s ability to extend plays and his deep-ball accuracy made him a fan favorite.
NFL Career
Jordan Ta’amu went undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft but signed with the Houston Texans. He bounced between practice squads and later played in alternative football leagues, including the XFL and USFL, where he found considerable success. While his NFL career hasn’t flourished, Ta’amu’s perseverance and adaptability have kept him relevant in professional football.
Honorable Mentions
While the spotlight often shines brightest on the standout quarterbacks who reached the NFL, several other Ole Miss signal-callers have left their mark on the football world, whether through brief professional stints or significant contributions to the Rebels’ storied history.
- Bo Wallace: A gritty and determined quarterback, Wallace led the Rebels to a 10-3 record and a Peach Bowl appearance in 2014. Though he didn’t make it to the NFL, his leadership during his time at Ole Miss earned him a lasting legacy among Rebels fans.
- John Fourcade: A star for the Rebels in the early 1980s, Fourcade’s professional career included a stint with the New Orleans Saints in the NFL, as well as time in the Canadian Football League and USFL. His adaptability and persistence were hallmarks of his career.
- Kelly Powell: Known for his dynamic dual-threat abilities, Powell played a key role for Ole Miss in the 1990s. Though he didn’t pursue a long NFL career, his impact on the Rebels’ offense during his tenure remains significant.
These honorable mentions highlight the depth of talent that Ole Miss has produced at the quarterback position over the decades.
The History of Ole Miss Football: A Legacy of Excellence with Ole Miss Quarterbacks Leading the Way
The University of Mississippi football program, known as Ole Miss, has built a legacy of excellence since its inception in 1893. A crucial part of this legacy has been the standout Ole Miss quarterbacks who have left their mark on both college football and the NFL. These signal-callers have exemplified the skill, leadership, and competitive spirit that define the Rebels’ football tradition.
Under the leadership of legendary coach Johnny Vaught, Ole Miss reached national prominence in the mid-20th century. Vaught’s innovative strategies and ability to develop elite talent—especially quarterbacks—guided the Rebels to three national championships (1959, 1960, and 1962). This success helped set a high standard for future Ole Miss quarterbacks and cemented the program’s reputation as a powerhouse during that era.
Ole Miss quarterbacks are part of a broader tradition of Rebels football excellence. Iconic elements such as the “Hotty Toddy” cheer and the pregame tailgates at The Grove, known as one of the best tailgating experiences in the country, add to the allure of the program. These traditions, combined with the legacy of standout Ole Miss quarterbacks, make game days in Oxford, Mississippi, unforgettable.
For over a century, Ole Miss football has been synonymous with elite talent, resilience, and Southern pride. Ole Miss quarterbacks have played a pivotal role in upholding this legacy, symbolizing the program’s enduring commitment to excellence and its ability to produce stars who shine on and off the field.
How Ole Miss Performed Last Year
The 2023 college football season was a rollercoaster for Ole Miss. Under head coach Lane Kiffin, the Rebels demonstrated their offensive firepower but faced challenges in consistency, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. They finished the season with an 8-5 record, including a solid performance in conference play in the SEC West.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart led the team with 3,014 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. His mobility and decision-making kept the offense dynamic, while standout performances from wide receiver Jordan Watkins and running back Quinshon Judkins added to the team’s offensive arsenal.
The Rebels capped off the season with an appearance in the Citrus Bowl, where they narrowly lost in a high-scoring affair. While the season didn’t end with a championship, the team’s resilience and offensive prowess left fans optimistic for the future.
How Ole Miss is Doing This Year
The 2024 season has seen Ole Miss build on last year’s foundation, with noticeable improvements in both offense and defense. As of midseason, the Rebels boast a 6-2 record, positioning themselves as contenders in the highly competitive SEC West.
Jaxson Dart continues to lead the offense, showing growth in his accuracy and decision-making. With 2,100 passing yards and 18 touchdowns so far this season, Dart has established himself as one of the premier quarterbacks in the conference. Quinshon Judkins remains a workhorse in the backfield, consistently breaking tackles and gaining key yards.
On the defensive side, the Rebels have tightened up, allowing fewer points per game compared to last year. Defensive end Jared Ivey has been a force on the line, racking up sacks and disrupting opposing offenses.
Key wins against SEC rivals, including a thrilling overtime victory against LSU, have bolstered the team’s confidence. With crucial games ahead, including a showdown with Alabama, the Rebels are eager to make their mark in the SEC standings and secure a prominent bowl game appearance.
The Current Ole Miss Quarterback: Jaxson Dart
Jaxson Dart has emerged as a cornerstone for the Ole Miss Rebels under head coach Lane Kiffin. A transfer from the University of Southern California (USC), Dart arrived in Oxford with high expectations, and he has more than lived up to them. As the starting quarterback for the Rebels in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Dart has demonstrated a unique combination of arm talent, athleticism, and leadership that has revitalized the team’s offense.
Early Life and College Journey
Born in Kaysville, Utah, Jaxson Dart quickly made a name for himself as a standout athlete at Corner Canyon High School. Dart’s senior season was one for the record books, as he threw for over 4,500 yards and 67 touchdowns while rushing for 1,195 yards and 12 more scores. His incredible performance earned him the prestigious Gatorade National Player of the Year award, along with offers from several top-tier college football programs.
Dart initially committed to USC, where he showcased his potential as a true freshman. During his debut season in 2021, he threw for 1,353 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions in limited action. Despite his promise, USC’s coaching changes and the arrival of Caleb Williams prompted Dart to explore other opportunities, leading him to transfer to Ole Miss.
2023 Season: Proving His Worth
In his first year as the full-time starter for Ole Miss, Dart wasted no time making an impact. He threw for 3,014 yards, 20 touchdowns, and just 8 interceptions while adding 614 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns on the ground. His dual-threat ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his chemistry with standout players like Quinshon Judkins and Jordan Watkins elevated the Rebels’ offense to one of the most dynamic in the SEC.
Dart’s 2023 campaign was highlighted by a game-winning drive against Arkansas, where he showcased his poise under pressure. His performance earned him recognition as one of the most improved quarterbacks in the conference and set the stage for a promising 2024 season.
2024 Season: Rising to the Occasion
The 2024 season has been a breakout year for Dart, solidifying his reputation as one of the SEC’s top quarterbacks. As of midseason, he has thrown for 2,100 yards and 18 touchdowns, with only 5 interceptions. His improved accuracy, decision-making, and ability to extend plays have been instrumental in Ole Miss’s success.
Dart’s leadership has been on full display in pivotal games, including a thrilling overtime win against LSU. In that game, he threw for 325 yards and 3 touchdowns, adding another score on the ground. His ability to remain calm under pressure and deliver in clutch moments has endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Strengths and Play Style
Jaxson Dart’s play style is characterized by his dual-threat ability. While he is an accomplished passer with a strong arm and excellent field vision, his mobility sets him apart. Dart is just as comfortable evading defenders in the pocket as he is taking off for a first down on the ground. His physical toughness and willingness to take hits for extra yardage have made him a respected leader on and off the field.
Additionally, Dart’s ability to spread the ball around has made Ole Miss’s offense unpredictable. He has developed strong connections with multiple receivers, including Jordan Watkins and Dayton Wade, keeping defenses guessing and maximizing the team’s scoring potential.
Future Prospects
As Dart continues to excel, his name is beginning to appear on NFL draft boards. Scouts have praised his athleticism, arm strength, and competitive nature, which could make him an attractive prospect in the coming years. However, Dart remains focused on leading the Rebels to success in the present, with hopes of securing a major bowl game appearance this season.
Legacy at Ole Miss
While it’s too early to fully assess Dart’s legacy, he is undoubtedly on track to be remembered as one of the great Ole Miss quarterbacks. His combination of talent, grit, and leadership has reignited excitement in Oxford, and fans are eager to see how far he can take the team in the seasons to come. If he continues on his current trajectory, Dart could join the ranks of Ole Miss legends who have made their mark both in college football and beyond.
Ole Miss has a proud tradition of producing quarterbacks who achieve success in college and transition to the professional stage. From the legendary careers of Eli and Archie Manning to the dynamic play of Jordan Ta’amu, these quarterbacks showcase the talent and resilience fostered at Ole Miss. The legacy of Ole Miss quarterbacks in the NFL is a testament to the program’s ability to develop players who excel at the highest level of football.
