Jaxson Dart evaluates Walker Howard, Austin Simmons' competition for backup QB role

Ole Miss already has an established starting quarterback, turning to Jaxson Dart for a third consecutive season. Where the competition lies is to be the backup, with Walker Howard and Austin Simmons fighting for the spot. If anything were to happen to Dart, one of them would have to step up in a big situation for the Rebels.

Dart was asked for his evaluation of the backup quarterback competition, speaking highly of both Howard and Simmons. With fall camp just getting started in Oxford, the battle is just getting rolling as well. Something fun should unfold during practices and Dart is excited to watch.

“It’s fun,” Dart said. “They’re all very talented and very talented in their own regards. They’re very different players and it’s exciting to watch them compete. I love competing along with them.

“I think they’re both great guys. They love this game and they really push themself each and every day to be the best at what they do. So, it’s going to be a great competition. I’m excited because they’re two hell of players.”

Two different journeys have brought the two potential backup quarterbacks to Ole Miss.

Howard began his college career with the LSU Tigers but was a nice addition to the room by head coach Lane Kiffin via the NCAA transfer portal. He has now been with the Rebels for two seasons and could be ready to take on a bigger role.

As for Simmons, he was signed out of the high school ranks, being a former four-star recruit out of Pahokee (FL) Moore Haven. Simmons also played for the Ole Miss baseball team in 2024, making 13 relief appearances with a 3.21 ERA.

But the attention is now on football for Simmons. Dart is clearly high on what the duo can bring to Ole Miss, even if neither are planned to get much playing time in 2024. In an expanded season, a backup quarterback can be a huge piece in making sure year-long goals are accomplished.

Before wrapping up his comments, Dart made sure to mention another player who has a “very bright future” in his opinion.

True freshman AJ Maddox was around for spring practice and certainly impressed those who got to watch. And while he might not factor into the backup quarterback race in 2024, Dart believes in what Maddox can provide somewhere down the road.