Austin Simmons excited to learn from Ole Miss legends at Manning Passing Academy

While attending the Manning Passing Academy in Thibodaux, La. this weekend, Austin Simmons will get to spend time with two Ole Miss legends in Archie and Eli Manning. He spent the first day talking with them and plans to continue to learn throughout his time with the Rebels.

Simmons is looking to follow in the footsteps of Jaxson Dart, who became a first-round NFL Draft pick by, appropriately, the New York Giants – Eli Manning’s former team. At just 19 years old, he already has his bachelor’s degree, and the hype continues to grow about his potential at quarterback this season.

The former four-star recruit will now be able to spend time with the Mannings this week in Thibodaux. He said the introduction went well, and he’ll keep soaking up the knowledge throughout his time with them.

“Right now, I’m still building that relationship with them,” Simmons said. “It was my first time really talking to them last night – like, a meaningful conversation, last night. That relationship’s going to come over time. The wisdom stuff takes more of a time while I’m around them more often, while I’m here. It’ll come.”

As for his goals at the Manning Passing Academy, Simmons said he’s focusing on the small details of his game. If he sees any weak spots, he wants to address them so he can reach his full potential.

“I think just making the most of the opportunities I could really learn over time,” Simmons said. “Really, just taking everything for what it is. Taking those minor details in my game, just taking it to the next level.”

Austin Simmons arrived at Ole Miss last season from Pahokee (Fla.) Moore Haven Junior/Senior, where he was a four-star recruit. He was the No. 266 overall player and No. 19-ranked quarterback out of the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

As a true freshman, Simmons appeared in nine games. He completed 59.4% of his passes for 282 yards and two touchdowns in that time, and he didn’t throw a single interception. Now, he’ll have the keys to Lane Kiffin’s offense as Ole Miss looks to build on yet another 10-win season.

“I’ve got the little hype going,” Simmons told On3’s Andy Staples and Ari Wasserman on Andy & Ari On3 last month. “Now I’ve just got to go out there next season and perform.”