New SSD on old Optiplex 780

I'm trying to give new life to an old PC.  I'm attempting to install a 256gb, SATA III SSD in an Optiplex 780 and then Linux Mint.

I'm running into a couple issues.  Originally I was going to install Linux from a USB drive.  Even when I reconfigure the boot sequence in the BIOS it still didn't recognize or initiate the USB drive and would boot from the original HDD.  To force it I figured I would install a clean SSD.  Now when I boot up I get a blank screen with a flashing cursor at the top left.

When I go in into BIOS I can see that the SSD is recognized so I'm not sure of what the issue is.  I actually installed the SSD on a other computer and was able to install Linux no problem.

On a whim I plugged it into the 780 to see if I would get a different outcome but it's still just the flashing cursor.

Is there a way to replace the Dell BIOS?  I think that may be the root of the issue.

Any help is greatly appreciated!