As college football enthusiasts prepare for the culmination of the 2024 season with the College Football Playoff (CFP), one name continues to dominate the discussion when it comes to Texas football: Quinn Ewers. The talented quarterback, who has been the focal point of Texas’ resurgence in recent years, is on the cusp of making some significant decisions that will determine the trajectory of his career. With the CFP looming, it’s time to assess what the future holds for Ewers once the playoffs conclude. Let’s dive into the major predictions surrounding his future, his prospects in the NFL, and the steps he might take after Texas’ 2024 campaign wraps up.
The Impact of the College Football Playoff on Ewers’ Decision
Quinn Ewers, who began his college career as one of the most highly-touted quarterbacks in recent memory, has had his share of ups and downs throughout his tenure at Texas. His first year as the starter in 2022 had its challenges, but Ewers demonstrated flashes of brilliance that showcased his immense potential. However, 2024 has been a breakout season for Ewers. After leading the Longhorns to the Big 12 Championship Game and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff, he has firmly placed himself on the national radar.
Ewers is well aware that the outcome of the 2024 College Football Playoff will be pivotal in shaping his career trajectory, both in terms of his college legacy and his NFL aspirations. If Texas makes a deep run into the CFP, his stock will undoubtedly rise. A strong performance in the playoff could potentially elevate him to the forefront of the 2025 NFL Draft conversation, especially considering that many top quarterbacks in college football will be graduating or declaring for the draft after the season.
The biggest question surrounding Ewers is whether he will return for another season at Texas if the Longhorns fall short of the national championship. His decision will hinge on how he feels about his draft prospects, the feedback he receives from NFL scouts, and whether he believes that another year of college football will improve his stock or refine his game further.
Ewers’ NFL Prospects: A Strong 2025 Draft Candidate
The buzz surrounding Ewers has only grown stronger over the course of the 2024 season. Despite some inconsistency in his early years, Ewers has shown incredible progress. His arm strength, deep ball accuracy, and playmaking ability have continued to impress scouts. He possesses a rare combination of physical tools, including his 6-foot-3, 225-pound frame, which allows him to make throws from all areas of the field. Add in his athleticism and ability to escape pressure, and it’s clear why NFL teams are monitoring his development closely.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Ewers finds himself in a strong position to be one of the top quarterbacks available. There are several key factors at play when projecting where he could land in the draft.
- Physical Traits: Ewers has the prototypical build for an NFL quarterback. He’s big, strong, and mobile, with the arm strength to make every throw. His mechanics have improved under Texas’ coaching staff, making his delivery quicker and more consistent.
- Development and Growth: A big part of Ewers’ draft stock will depend on his performance in the 2024 College Football Playoff. If he continues to shine on the biggest stage, he could move up the draft boards, possibly even entering the conversation for the No. 1 overall pick. Many draft experts believe that the 2025 quarterback class will be one of the deepest in years, with other highly-rated quarterbacks like Drake Maye (North Carolina) and Caleb Williams (USC) also vying for top spots. Ewers has the potential to be a high-first-round pick, but his ability to elevate his play in the postseason will likely determine where he lands.
- NFL Team Needs: The demand for quarterback talent in the NFL is always high, and several teams are expected to be looking for a franchise quarterback in 2025. The most likely landing spots for Ewers could be with teams that are in rebuilding phases or that need an immediate upgrade at the position. Teams like the Washington Commanders, Indianapolis Colts, and Las Vegas Raiders could be key players in the quarterback market.
- College Experience: While some quarterbacks declare early for the NFL Draft, Ewers has the luxury of being able to return to college if needed. His decision will come down to his confidence in his readiness for the professional ranks. Should he choose to stay for another year at Texas, Ewers would benefit from another season to sharpen his skills, improve his decision-making, and gain more experience in high-pressure situations.
Will Ewers Return to Texas?
While many experts predict that Ewers is leaning toward entering the NFL Draft after the 2024 season, there is always the possibility that he returns for his junior season. Given the changes in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities, players have a greater incentive to stay in school longer, especially if they can capitalize on financial opportunities while playing in a highly-competitive environment like the Big 12.
However, the decision to return for another season could be influenced by several factors:
- Coaching Stability: Texas has seen some changes in its coaching staff in recent years, but if Steve Sarkisian remains in place and continues to build on the program’s success, Ewers may find the situation conducive to his development. A strong relationship with his coaches could persuade him to stay another year to refine his craft and make another championship run.
- Team Success: If Texas wins the national championship in 2024, Ewers may have little incentive to return to school. A championship could provide him with the validation he needs to move on to the NFL, knowing that he has accomplished everything he set out to achieve at the collegiate level. On the other hand, if the Longhorns fall short of that goal, Ewers may feel that another season could help him reach the pinnacle of college football and improve his draft prospects even more.
- NFL Feedback: The feedback Ewers receives from NFL scouts will be another critical factor in his decision-making process. If he hears that his game needs significant refinement, he might decide to return for another season. However, if scouts project him as a top pick, it may be too difficult for him to pass up the chance to make the leap to the NFL.
Conclusion: The Future is Bright for Quinn Ewers
Regardless of what decision Quinn Ewers makes after the College Football Playoff, there is no doubt that his future in football is bright. Whether he enters the 2025 NFL Draft or decides to return to Texas for another season, Ewers will continue to be one of the most intriguing prospects in college football.
As the CFP unfolds and Texas looks to solidify its place in college football history, all eyes will be on Ewers, not only for his on-field performance but also for the decisions that will shape his professional career. Regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that Quinn Ewers’ journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come for this immensely talented quarterback.
