The upcoming College Football Playoff semifinal between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes on January 10th has brought the future of Longhorns’ quarterback Quinn Ewers into sharp focus. Ewers, projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, finds himself at a crossroads, with the allure of professional football vying against the potential for another year of college competition. The intrigue surrounding his decision is amplified by the presence of Arch Manning, a highly touted prospect waiting in the wings, ready to step into the starting quarterback role should Ewers choose to depart.
The buzz around Ewers’ future intensified prior to Texas’ Peach Bowl victory against Arizona State, with reports surfacing of lucrative transfer portal offers reaching $6 million. This financial incentive, coupled with his remaining college eligibility, presents a compelling alternative to immediately declaring for the NFL draft. Ewers, however, has remained tight-lipped about his plans, deflecting questions about his future and emphasizing his commitment to the Longhorns’ playoff run. He stated that considering his personal future amidst the team’s pursuit of a national championship would be a “disservice” to his teammates and a “selfish” act.
Ewers’ emphasis on the present moment highlights his maturity and dedication to the team’s collective goal. His focus on the upcoming clash with Ohio State underscores his desire to finish the season strong and contribute fully to the team’s success. This unwavering commitment to the present, coupled with his acknowledgment of the potential distraction of future considerations, reveals a player prioritizing the collective over the individual.
While Ewers remains focused on the immediate task at hand, the broader context of his decision is unavoidable. The NFL beckons with its immense potential rewards, both financially and professionally. The transfer portal offers a different path, one potentially paved with significant financial incentives while still allowing him to compete at the collegiate level. Finally, returning to Texas for another year would solidify his position as the team’s leader and allow him to further develop his skills under the guidance of the Longhorns’ coaching staff.
Should Ewers decide to forgo his remaining college eligibility and enter the 2024 NFL Draft, he would join a quarterback class currently headlined by Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders. While these two quarterbacks are considered the frontrunners, Ewers’ talent and potential would undoubtedly attract the attention of NFL teams seeking a young quarterback to build around. His strong arm, combined with his mobility and ability to extend plays, make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to inject dynamism into their offenses.
The decision facing Ewers is significant, with each potential path presenting its own unique set of advantages and challenges. The NFL offers the pinnacle of professional achievement and financial security. The transfer portal provides a blend of financial reward and continued collegiate competition. Remaining at Texas allows for further development and the opportunity to lead the Longhorns to a national championship. Regardless of his ultimate decision, Ewers’ future is bright, filled with the promise of success at the highest levels of football. The coming weeks will reveal the direction he chooses to pursue, a decision that will shape not only his own career but also the future of the Texas Longhorns football program.
