Rising QB Jaxson Dart picks USC football over UCLA, ASU on Early Signing Day 2021

Jaxson Dart completes USC football’s quarterback haul for the class of 2021

USC football needed a second quarterback in the class of 2021 and they got another good one.

On Early Signing Day, four-star quarterback Jaxson Dart from Draper, Utah picked the Trojans over UCLA, ASU and BYU live on ESPN2.

Dart thanked his teammates, particularly his offense line, and his coaches. He also credited his family for their support.

“In the end, there’s only one place that my heart is telling me to go,” Dart said, announcing his commitment to USC.

Jaxson Dart will add a new dimension for USC football at quarterback

Dart is exactly the kind of prospect who demonstrates the importance of evaluations throughout the recruiting process. He wasn’t even listed in the 247Sports composite going into his senior season while the 247Sports individual rankings had him at No. 1,620 as late as Aug. 31.

Fast forward and the quarterback has shot up the recruiting boards, topping out at No. 103 in the composite. He is now No. 9 among quarterbacks and No. 2 in the state of Utah.

When you have a season like Dart had in 2021, talent evaluators can’t help but notice. He threw for 4,691 yards and 67 touchdowns with just four interceptions while earning the title Mr. Utah.

Here’s something that should add some extra juice to any expectations USC fans might have about Dart’s skillset. Even though he is listed as a pro-style quarterback, he rushed for 1,195 yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground as a senior. The Trojans haven’t had a rushing threat like that at quarterback since…ever?

In order for Dart to put his arms and legs to use for USC, he’ll face some stiff competition. The Trojans have another 2021 quarterback commit in Miller Moss, the No. 71 prospect in the class out of Bishop Alemany.

In the early going, Moss and Dart will compete for the privilege of backing up Kedon Slovis while providing some much-needed depth for the Trojans at quarterback. Once Slovis leaves, all bets will be off.