According to a report from Horns 247, Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers allegedly turned down $8 million to transfer to another college, choosing instead to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Ewers announced his decision to enter the NFL Draft on Tuesday, Jan. 15, though the decision was met with controversy, as many fans thought he should have stayed in college for his final year.
About two weeks prior, it was widely reported that Ewers had received a $6 million offer from an unnamed school. At the time, that deal seemed ludicrous, but no one could have imagined Ewers receiving an $8 million contract.
Why Did Quinn Ewers Decline $8 Million Offer?
This is a question that came to mind when the news first broke.
There are a multitude of personal reasons why he may have decided that the NFL would be better for him, but it stands to question, is Ewers’ stock higher than it appears?
As of right now, it seems like the consensus opinion of Ewers is that he’s not going earlier than a Day 2 pick. If he finds himself drafted in the second round, his signing bonus would be about $3 million — far less than his offer to transfer.
However, if Ewers got drafted in the middle of the first round, that number would jump up to around $10 million.
With where his draft stock currently sits, it’s an interesting move to decline the alleged offer based on money alone. Yet, again, money is probably not the only factor in this decision.
What Ewers Offer Means for Future of College Football
While Ewers declined the alleged $8 million deal, it’s completely changed the landscape of NIL and college football moving forward.
Carson Beck accepted a $4 million offer from Miami to stay in college and transfer. Many were quick to point out that Beck would be making more money in his senior season than several starting NFL quarterbacks would make next year.
The alleged offer to Ewers only further demonstrates what some teams are willing to pay for an elite talent, particularly at QB. With these numbers in mind, it’s hard to imagine any future quarterback who is thinking about declaring early for the NFL and not considering staying in school for one more year.
MORE: 2025 Texas QB Depth Chart Without Quinn Ewers
Players who might have a second or third-round grade on themselves are finding out they are much more valuable in college than they are in the pros. The Ewers offer will likely create a drastic shift in college players’ mindsets and where they can make the most cash.
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