As the Texas Longhorns navigate the final stretch of their 2024 football season, much of the focus has been on the quarterback room, which boasts incredible talent with starter Quinn Ewers, backup Maalik Murphy, and freshman sensation Arch Manning. While Ewers has been instrumental in Texas’s success this year, questions about his future with the team are intensifying as NFL Draft declarations loom. Could Ewers return for another season in 2025? His recent comments have sparked intrigue among Texas fans and the college football world.
Quinn Ewers has been a steady presence for Texas in 2024, showcasing improved decision-making, accuracy, and leadership compared to his earlier seasons. Leading the Longhorns to a strong record and keeping their College Football Playoff hopes alive, Ewers has solidified his reputation as one of the most talented quarterbacks in the nation.
Heading into the 2024 season, many analysts projected Ewers as a potential first-round NFL Draft pick if he continued his upward trajectory. With prototypical size, a strong arm, and significant experience in Steve Sarkisian’s offense, Ewers fits the mold of an NFL-ready quarterback. However, his comments about his future suggest he’s considering an unexpected path.
When asked during a recent media availability about his potential plans for the 2025 season, Ewers left the door open for a return to Austin. “Right now, I’m focused on finishing this season and doing everything I can to help this team win,” Ewers said. “The NFL is something I’ve thought about, but there’s also a lot to be said for staying and continuing to grow as a player and as a leader. We’ll see what happens.”
Ewers’ response, while noncommittal, was enough to excite Texas fans who are already envisioning the possibility of him staying another year. His emphasis on “continuing to grow” and “helping the team” suggests that he hasn’t ruled out a return, even as his draft stock remains high.
There are several factors that could influence Ewers’ decision to either declare for the draft or stay at Texas for 2025:
1. **NFL Draft Stock**: Ewers is currently projected as a late first-round or early second-round pick in most mock drafts. A return to Texas could give him another year to develop and solidify himself as a top-10 prospect.
2. **Arch Manning’s Development**: With Arch Manning waiting in the wings, Ewers’ potential return would create an interesting dynamic. Manning is widely regarded as the future of Texas football, but Ewers could remain the starter in 2025, giving the Longhorns a luxury problem.
3. **Unfinished Business**: If Texas falls short of its ultimate goal of winning a national championship in 2024, Ewers might feel compelled to return and lead the Longhorns to glory.
4. **NIL Opportunities**: In the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, Ewers could earn significant income by staying in college another year, reducing the financial incentive to enter the draft early.
If Ewers does decide to return in 2025, it would be a game-changer for Texas. The Longhorns’ quarterback room would be among the best in the country, and Ewers’ experience would give the team a veteran leader in its second season in the SEC. His presence could also ease the transition for Manning, allowing the younger quarterback to continue learning under Sarkisian’s system.
On the other hand, Ewers’ return could complicate the situation for Manning, who may expect to take over as the starter in his sophomore season. Managing the quarterback room would require careful navigation by Sarkisian to maintain team chemistry.
Texas fans are divided on the potential return of Ewers. Many would welcome him back with open arms, citing his proven ability to win games and his leadership qualities. Others are eager to see Manning take the reins, believing that his development is crucial for the program’s long-term success.
Social media has been abuzz with speculation. One fan wrote, “If Quinn stays, we have a shot at the natty in 2025. Arch can wait his turn.” Another countered, “Love Quinn, but it’s time to let Arch cook. The future is now.”
Quinn Ewers’ decision about his future will have significant implications for Texas football and the broader college football landscape. While he has the talent to enter the NFL Draft and make an impact at the next level, the prospect of returning to Texas for 2025 offers its own set of benefits—for both Ewers and the Longhorns.
As the 2024 season winds down, all eyes will remain on Ewers and his next move. Whether he decides to go pro or stay in Austin, one thing is certain: Texas fans will passionately debate the possibilities every step of the way.