Jaxson Dart, who was drafted by the New York Giants with the 25th overall pick, received a special welcome message from two-time Super Bowl champion Eli Manning, who knows all about being a franchise quarterback for the Giants. Manning, a former Ole Miss quarterback like Dart, congratulated him on joining the team and reminded him of the strong connection between Ole Miss quarterbacks and the Giants.
Manning, drafted by the Chargers in 2004 and traded to the Giants, referenced the history of successful Ole Miss quarterbacks with the team, including the late Charlie Conerly, who led the Giants to an NFL championship in 1956. Manning expressed excitement that Dart would continue that tradition with the team, and assured him he would quickly realize what a great organization the Giants are.
Dart had broken Manning’s school record for career passing yards at Ole Miss and had developed a relationship with Manning and his family. He was grateful for their support, noting that Manning had reached out to him shortly after the draft news broke.
Dart, who will have the opportunity to learn behind veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in the Giants’ quarterback room, is not expected to rush onto the field immediately. He plans to use this time to develop and seek advice from Manning, whom he admires for his NFL success and leadership. Dart mentioned that he considers it invaluable to have Manning in his corner as he embarks on his own NFL journey.
Manning closed his message to Dart with well wishes, saying he looked forward to rooting for him in the Giants’ colors for the next 15 years.
