News Summary
The Ole Miss Rebels football team is preparing for the 2025 season after Jaxson Dart’s departure. With new quarterback Austin Simmons leading the charge, joined by promising recruits AJ Maddox, Trinidad Chambliss, and Maealiuaki Smith, the team aims to establish a strong offensive identity. As they build towards a potentially competitive season, the focus on quarterback development is expected to be key in the Rebels’ quest for success.
Oxford, Mississippi – The Ole Miss Rebels football team is gearing up for the 2025 season with a renewed focus on their quarterback position, following the departure of Jaxson Dart to the NFL. Dart’s exit leaves a significant gap as he concluded his tenure as the program’s all-time leader in both passing yards and total offense.
The quarterback position will play a critical role in the Rebels’ quest for success in the upcoming season. Stepping into the spotlight is Austin Simmons, a dual-sport athlete who stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 215 pounds. Simmons has been mentored under Dart and offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. since his arrival at Ole Miss.
Simmons initially committed to Florida before making a notable switch to Ole Miss in 2023. His decision to re-classify two years up into the 2025 recruiting class demonstrates his commitment to the program. Despite limited game experience, Simmons showcased promise during a drive against Georgia in 2024, completing 5 of 6 passes for 64 yards and a touchdown. This performance has led to positive feedback and excitement from fans and analysts alike as they anticipate his full debut.
During spring practice, Simmons expressed his approach to asserting his role, indicating that the fundamental nature of football remains unchanged, regardless of his title. This focus on a strong foundation may serve as an asset as he leads the Rebels forward.
In addition to Simmons, AJ Maddox, a four-star recruit from Oak Grove High School in Mississippi, is another significant contender in the quarterback room. Previously committed to Texas A&M, Maddox has displayed his potential during practice and has been recognized for his strong comprehension of the offensive scheme. However, at merely 185 pounds, gaining strength will be essential for Maddox to secure either a backup or starting role.
Competing for a chance to take the quarterback position is Trinidad Chambliss, who arrives at Ole Miss from Ferris State after leading his previous team to a Division II national championship in the 2024 season. Chambliss experienced an impressive season, throwing for 2,925 yards while also rushing for 1,019 yards, contributing to a total of 51 touchdowns. His performance displayed not only his athleticism but also his leadership abilities, potentially adding depth and competitiveness to the Rebels’ quarterback lineup.
The quarterback pool is further strengthened by the addition of Maealiuaki Smith, a freshman from San Mateo, California. After transferring from Oklahoma State, Smith, who measures 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 200 pounds, is recognized for his strong arm and mobility on the field. In his time at Oklahoma State, he started two games in 2024, thrown for 489 yards with two touchdowns, and managed four interceptions.
As the Ole Miss Rebels prepare for the 2025 season, establishing a robust offensive identity is crucial in the wake of Dart’s departure. This will largely depend on how Simmons, alongside Maddox, Chambliss, and Smith, develops throughout practice. The growth and competition within the quarterback group will be essential as the team aims to achieve its goal of winning a national championship.
In summary, the Rebels are optimistic about their quarterback situation, especially with Simmons taking the reins. His background, coupled with the talent of his fellow quarterbacks, sets the stage for what could be a dynamic and competitive season ahead.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ole Miss Football Announces Kickoff Times for 2025 Season
Knox Kiffin Joins Oxford High School Football Program
Exploring the Legacy of Ole Miss Football
Trey Hall to Miss 2025 Season with Achilles Injury
Freshman Star Hayden Federico Boosts Ole Miss Baseball
Junior Day at Ole Miss Welcomes Future Stars
Exciting Times in Oxford as Rebels Shine on All-America Stage!
Ole Miss Recruits Surge: Kiffin’s Transfer Portal Strategy Shines Bright
Micah Pettus, Ole Miss Offensive Tackle, Enters Transfer Portal as NFL Dreams Take Shape
Jaxson Dart Reflects on Record-Breaking Career at Ole Miss Ahead of Final Game in Gator Bowl
Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss Football Recruiting
- Wikipedia: Ole Miss Rebels Football
- The Rebel Walk: Ole Miss Football 2025 Season Preview
- Google Search: Ole Miss Football 2025
- Ole Miss Sports: New Era of College Athletics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Sports Illustrated: Ole Miss Football Commit Reopens Recruitment
- Google News: Ole Miss Football Recruiting
- Oxford Eagle: Ole Miss Football Kickoff Times
- Google Scholar: Ole Miss Football
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
