Quinn Ewers declares for 2025 NFL draft, paving way for Arch Manning's rise

In January 2025, Quinn Ewers, the junior quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, announced his decision to enter the NFL draft, concluding his collegiate career. During his time at Texas, he achieved impressive statistics, throwing for 9,128 yards and 68 touchdowns, while leading the team to a Big 12 championship and participating twice in the College Football Playoff. Ewers's announcement highlighted a balance between personal accomplishments and the pressure from a fanbase eager for the arrival of prospect Arch Manning, signaling a significant shift in the quarterback landscape for the Longhorns. Ewers began his journey as a promising quarterback, ranked as the top recruit in the 2021 class, initially committing to Ohio State. After one season with the Buckeyes, he transferred to Texas, where he faced challenges but ultimately excelled. Over his three seasons at Texas, he led the program to notable victories and had a record fourth as a starting quarterback, but also dealt with injuries that limited his time on the field. His performance improved significantly from his first season to his second, demonstrating a clear development as a player. Despite leading Texas to consecutive opportunities in the College Football Playoffs, Ewers's journey was not without adversity, including moments of inconsistency during crucial games. Fans looked forward to Ewers's potential as a first-round draft pick, especially after showcasing his capabilities against top teams, including an impressive performance against the reigning national champions Michigan. His departure sets the stage for Arch Manning, whose upbringing in a football family has made him a highly anticipated prospect in Texas. With Ewers moving on to the NFL, his legacy consists of elevated expectations for future Texas quarterbacks and a transformed Longhorns program entering a new era in the Southeastern Conference. While Ewers's career at Texas ends, Arch Manning's opportunity as the next starting quarterback offers hope for fans yearning for success in the SEC. This transition could redefine the Texas football program as it seeks to establish its dominance in a new conference.