Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss Make Move for ’26 California Defensive Lineman Dakota Dickson
OXFORD, Miss. — Head coach Lane Kiffin and the Rebels are on the hunt for talent, digging deep into untapped high school reservoirs to bolster their defensive line. Recently, Ole Miss set its sights on Dakota Dickson, a formidable 6-foot-5, 300-pound playmaker hailing from Monte Vista High School in Danville, California.
Ranked in the 2026 class as the No. 89 overall defensive lineman and the No. 77 athlete in the Golden State, Dickson is a prospect that could make waves in college football.
During his junior season, Dickson showcased his prowess in 11 games where he racked up an impressive 55 tackles, including 14 tackles for loss and five sacks. His defensive stats also include three pass deflections and nine quarterback hits—numbers that speak volumes about his disruptive presence on the field. Offensively, he proved equally adept, allowing zero sacks and just four pressures throughout the season.
This two-way talent is precisely what the Rebels need to enhance their depth chart. Watching Dickson play reveals a player who thrives in chaos; he brings an undeniable physicality that can turn games around.
Did some great work with @coach_schrider always getting it in!@MVHS_Football @BrandonHuffman @adamgorney @Rivals pic.twitter.com/X4f5euZg4v
— Dakota Dickson 2026’ (@DakotaDickson56) May 25, 2025
We had the pleasure of speaking with Dakota following his Ole Miss offer—a significant milestone considering he has received over 20 offers so far.
As he prepares for his senior year, he’s aware that some programs have been courting him since day one. However, when an SEC school comes calling, that’s an opportunity that resonates deeply with any aspiring athlete!
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Dickson shared:
“It’s a huge blessing because I grew up watching a bunch of SEC schools playing football and Ole Miss was one that I watched a lot.”
Dakota Dickson on the offer from Ole Miss
Despite Ole Miss entering the recruitment race later than others, Dakota has taken note of their dedicated approach. “They have done a lot of research about me and even talked with my trainer.”
While many colleges are vying for him as a defensive tackle, schools like SMU and Washington are also making strong impressions alongside Ole Miss. Ultimately, Dakota’s primary goal remains clear: “To become the best I can become.”
With camp season underway and official visits ramping up, Dakota is gearing up for some exciting travel ahead! He plans to visit Cal, SMU, Boise State, and Washington State—but will Oxford make it onto his itinerary? Yes! The Rebels are currently working to secure his visit to the iconic “Velvet Ditch.”
As we watch Dakota’s journey unfold—who knows what thrilling developments lie ahead? Stay tuned to The Rebel Walk as we follow this promising prospect’s journey.
Lee Ann Herring-Olvedo
Lee Ann is the Director of Recruiting for The Rebel Walk. She is a veteran SEC sports journalist and NFL content writer. She is also the Sr. Editor for MESPORTS digital. Herring-Olvedo is a Brown University graduate who loves good cigars, good games, and a smooth glass of bourbon — not necessarily in that order.
