The 2025 NFL Combine has arrived, and all eyes are on three standout players from Ole Miss: quarterback Jaxson Dart, defensive lineman Walter Nolen, and wide receiver Tre Harris. While each of them has had an impressive collegiate career, there are lingering questions about whether they are truly elite NFL prospects or simply products of a system that inflated their stock. With the draft quickly approaching, the combine will serve as a proving ground for these players—either confirming their status as first-round locks or exposing weaknesses that could see them slide down draft boards.
Jaxson Dart: Franchise Quarterback or System Product?
Jaxson Dart enters the combine as one of the most polarizing quarterback prospects in the 2025 draft class. The former USC transfer found his footing at Ole Miss under head coach Lane Kiffin’s high-powered offense, but scouts remain divided on his NFL potential.
Dart put up impressive numbers in his final college season, throwing for over 3,800 yards and 32 touchdowns while leading the Rebels to a strong finish in the SEC. However, skeptics argue that Kiffin’s offensive system, which emphasizes quick reads and explosive plays, masked some of Dart’s deficiencies. His deep-ball accuracy and pocket awareness have been inconsistent at times, leading to concerns about how he will handle NFL defenses.
At the combine, teams will closely analyze his mechanics, arm strength, and ability to process complex defenses in real time. While a strong showing could solidify his status as a first-round pick, a mediocre performance could see him drop into the second or third round—a scenario eerily similar to past highly touted quarterbacks who struggled to transition to the pros.
Walter Nolen: Dominant Force or Overrated Prospect?
Walter Nolen, a former five-star recruit, has long been viewed as a future first-round NFL talent. His raw strength and ability to dominate the line of scrimmage made him a nightmare for SEC offenses. However, some scouts question whether his dominance at the collegiate level will translate to the pros.
Nolen’s production at Ole Miss was undeniable—he racked up 11 sacks and 18 tackles for loss in his final season. However, some analysts believe his technique is still raw, relying too much on brute strength rather than refined pass-rushing moves. At the combine, his agility drills, hand technique, and lateral quickness will be scrutinized heavily. If he can prove he has the technique to complement his power, he could be a top-10 pick. If not, he may be viewed as more of a project than an instant-impact player.
Tre Harris: Playmaker or Beneficiary of Scheme?
Tre Harris is another Ole Miss standout looking to prove he belongs among the top receivers in this year’s draft class. He had a breakout year, posting over 1,200 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, showcasing his big-play ability and reliable hands. However, as with Dart, some question whether Harris was a product of Kiffin’s offensive scheme rather than a true elite receiver.
Harris’ ability to separate from defenders and make contested catches will be key areas of focus at the combine. Scouts want to see if he possesses the elite speed and route-running ability required to succeed in the NFL. A slow 40-yard dash time or lackluster agility drills could hurt his stock, whereas an explosive performance could vault him into the early rounds.
The Verdict: Boom or Bust?
As the NFL Combine progresses, Dart, Nolen, and Harris will have their biggest opportunity yet to silence critics and prove they are more than just system players. The biggest question remains—are they legitimate top-tier NFL prospects, or has the hype around them been inflated by Ole Miss’ offensive and defensive schemes?
NFL teams will ultimately have to decide whether these three Ole Miss standouts are worth a high draft pick or if they carry too many risks. While each has the potential to be a star, the combine will determine if they truly belong among the elite prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft—or if their draft stock was artificially boosted by a favorable system. One thing is certain: their performances in Indianapolis will be closely watched by scouts, analysts, and fans alike.