Jaxson Dart Weighs In on Lane Kiffin’s Exit and Ole Miss’ Playoff Push
Jaxson Dart may be settling into life as a rookie quarterback with the New York Giants, but his heart clearly still beats for Oxford. The Ole Miss alum spoke to reporters Wednesday and didn’t shy away from the biggest topic swirling around his former program - Lane Kiffin’s surprising departure to LSU.
Dart, who played under Kiffin during his time with the Rebels, offered a candid perspective that only someone who knows Kiffin personally could provide.
“With Kiff, he kinda does some things that are unexpected,” Dart said after practice. “I’m looking forward to his next opportunity. Me and him have such a great relationship… I’m excited for him.”
That unpredictability is part of what’s made Kiffin such a compelling - and at times polarizing - figure in college football. Whether it’s a bold fourth-down call or a sudden change in zip code, Kiffin rarely does things by the book. And while his exit from Ole Miss came as a jolt to many, Dart’s comments suggest there’s no bad blood - just an understanding that Kiffin is going to do what Kiffin does.
But Dart didn’t just look back - he looked ahead, and his focus shifted quickly to the team he left behind. With Ole Miss gearing up for a College Football Playoff run that begins Dec. 20 against Tulane, Dart made it clear he’s still riding with the Rebels.
“I’m also really happy for Ole Miss, keeping Coach Golding at the helm there,” Dart said. “I’m happy that they were able to keep their offensive staff, being able to coach the rest of the Playoff… it would’ve been a sign of disrespect a little bit not letting those guys finish it out.”
That’s a strong statement from a player who knows the locker room dynamics and understands what kind of message continuity can send during a high-stakes postseason run. In a sport where coaching changes can derail momentum in a heartbeat, Ole Miss holding onto its offensive brain trust could be the stabilizing force the Rebels need.
And Dart didn’t stop there. He’s not just rooting for Ole Miss - he’s predicting something big.
“I’m excited to see their run to a National Championship this year,” he added.
That’s not just a vote of confidence. That’s a bold endorsement from someone who’s seen the talent, the preparation, and the culture up close. Dart knows what this team is capable of, and even from the NFL sidelines, he’s betting on the Rebels to make some serious noise.
So while Lane Kiffin starts a new chapter in Baton Rouge, Ole Miss is writing its own story - one that still has the potential for a historic ending. And Jaxson Dart? He’ll be watching every step of the way.