As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one of the most pressing questions surrounding the Texas Longhorns football program has been the decision of star players about whether to enter the draft or return for another season. Among the key figures in this year’s saga is quarterback Quinn Ewers, a player who has been under the microscope for his potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level. His decision to either stay or go has significant ramifications for the future of Texas football. Just as the clock was ticking toward the deadline, Ewers made his highly anticipated NFL Draft decision, and his choice will have a ripple effect on the team, his career, and the Longhorns’ 2025 season.
The Stakes for Quinn Ewers and the Texas Longhorns
Ewers entered the college football scene with lofty expectations. A former five-star recruit and one of the most highly-touted quarterbacks in recent memory, he was expected to be a transformative figure for Texas after transferring from Ohio State. His first two seasons were filled with flashes of brilliance and moments of inconsistency, but despite that, the potential was undeniable. After a promising 2024 season, Ewers found himself at a crossroads: should he return to Texas for another year of development, or should he capitalize on his potential and declare for the NFL Draft?
The decision wasn’t just about Ewers’ future; it was also about the future of the Texas Longhorns program. A strong, stable quarterback is essential for any championship-contending team, and Texas had made significant progress under Ewers’ leadership. The Longhorns had just finished a solid season, but with the ever-present pressure of the SEC looming as Texas prepares to make the move to the conference, the stakes for the 2025 season couldn’t be higher.
The NFL Draft Decision Timeline
In the world of college football, the decision to declare for the NFL Draft is a momentous one. College players typically have until January 15 to declare for the draft, and with the deadline approaching, Ewers’ future was a topic of constant speculation. Many fans, analysts, and even his teammates were eagerly awaiting his decision. If Ewers declared for the draft, Texas would have to scramble to find a new leader for its offense, perhaps relying on backup quarterbacks or a highly touted recruit to take over the starting role. On the other hand, if Ewers decided to return for his junior season, the Longhorns could continue to build around him, possibly positioning themselves as national title contenders in the coming year.
As the clock ticked down to the deadline, anticipation surrounding Ewers’ decision grew. The media buzz was relentless, with every rumor and report being dissected by fans eager to know what their quarterback would choose. The decision wasn’t just about the present moment—it would define the trajectory of Texas football for at least the next few seasons.
Ewers’ Decision: A Surprising Twist
In a move that surprised many, Quinn Ewers made his decision to declare for the NFL Draft just before the deadline. While there had been speculation that he might return for one more year to solidify his draft stock and lead Texas into the SEC, Ewers chose to make the leap to the professional ranks. The decision was bold, as it meant he would forgo the chance to play another season under head coach Steve Sarkisian, who had worked tirelessly to develop Ewers into a capable and promising quarterback.
Ewers’ decision was met with a mixture of excitement and disappointment from the Texas fanbase. On one hand, fans were thrilled for him to take the next step in his career, understanding that it was an opportunity few athletes get. On the other hand, there was an element of sadness as many believed that Ewers’ return would have made Texas a much stronger contender in the upcoming season. Still, Ewers’ choice to move on was entirely understandable, as the NFL Draft represents the culmination of years of hard work and the opportunity to achieve his professional dreams.
What This Means for Quinn Ewers’ NFL Future
Now that Ewers has declared for the NFL Draft, the next question is what his future holds in the professional ranks. While his college career was marked by a few inconsistencies, there’s no denying that Ewers possesses the raw talent that many NFL teams covet. His arm strength, ability to make all the throws, and impressive mobility for his size make him a fascinating prospect for teams looking to add a young quarterback to their roster.
However, Ewers’ draft stock remains a bit uncertain. He has the potential to go high in the draft, but it’s likely that teams will evaluate his college tape carefully to see if he can develop into a reliable starting quarterback at the next level. The 2024 season showcased his ability to make big plays, but his consistency remained a question mark. His decision to enter the draft means he’ll likely undergo intense scrutiny from NFL scouts, but if he can shine during workouts and interviews, Ewers could see his draft stock rise significantly.
Texas Longhorns: Moving Forward Without Ewers
For Texas, Ewers’ decision creates both challenges and opportunities. Losing a player of his caliber is always difficult, but it also opens the door for new talent to step in and take over the offense. Texas has a talented quarterback room, with backup players like Malik Murphy and potentially new recruits eager to make an impact.
Murphy, in particular, has long been considered a player with potential. Though he hasn’t had many opportunities to showcase his skills on the field, Murphy’s strong arm and athleticism make him a solid option to lead the Longhorns into 2025. He will now likely face the pressure of filling the large shoes left by Ewers, but he’s not without talent and experience. Additionally, Texas’ recruiting efforts have been impressive, and it’s possible that a fresh face could join the quarterback competition, bringing new energy to the team.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian will now have the task of reshaping the Longhorns’ offense around whichever quarterback ultimately wins the job. It’s a challenge, but it’s one that Sarkisian has faced before. His coaching acumen has been a key reason why Texas made significant strides over the past few seasons, and he will undoubtedly be up to the task of maintaining the Longhorns’ competitive edge.
The Future of Texas Football
Ewers’ decision to enter the NFL Draft undoubtedly marks the end of an era for Texas football, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter. The Longhorns will now need to adjust to life without their former star quarterback, but with a solid foundation in place, they are still in a strong position to remain competitive. Texas has the talent, coaching, and resources to continue building a program capable of winning championships, and while Ewers will be missed, his departure opens the door for a new leader to rise.
As for Ewers, the NFL Draft marks a new beginning, one that offers the potential for success at the highest level of football. Regardless of where he ends up, the Texas star will likely be remembered for his leadership, talent, and his role in the resurgence of the Longhorns. Now, the focus shifts to what’s next for Texas and who will emerge as the team’s next star quarterback.
Niel Nathaniel 
Victor