With the final declaration date for the 2024 NFL Draft coming up, there were questions about whether or not Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers would be heading to the National Football League or heading back to Austin to make another run at a national championship.
On Thursday morning, Ewers announced his decision.
Ewers announced on Instagram that he was returning to Texas for his fourth season of college football and his third in Austin. With the Longhorns losing a lot of talent to the NFL, having their starting quarterback return is a big win for head coach Steve Sarkisian.
Ewers has had an interesting career in Texas. He suffered shoulder injuries in back-to-back seasons, missing five games combined. His first season was marred by inconsistencies, completing only 58.1% of his passes for 2,177 yards, and 15 touchdowns against six interceptions.
In 2023, things got better and more consistent for him, as his completion percentage improved drastically to 69.0% while throwing for 3,479 yards, 22 touchdowns, and six interceptions. The former perfect 1.0000 prospect per the 247 Sports Composite was starting to find his groove under center for the Longhorns.
As stated, the Longhorns are losing a lot of talent, specifically on the outside. Starting wide receiver Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell, along with tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders and running back Jonathon Brooks, have all declared for the NFL Draft.
Ewers’ return brings some consistency to the field in Austin. But what does this do for the rest of the Longhorns’ QB room?
MORE: Arch Manning Transfer Portal Destinations If He Were to Leave Texas
It certainly feels odd that Ewers is returning to Texas, not because of the player he is but rather his backup.
Arch Manning was one of the biggest recruits in history, having been chased by schools nationwide. He decided on Texas with an old-school commitment, a simple announcement, and no press.
He was also comfortable sitting behind the starter and waiting his turn. But how long will Manning be willing to wait?
A better question is: How long will the fanbase and boosters be willing to wait? Will Sarkisian feel pressure to start Manning over Ewers or even institute a two-quarterback system?
With his old-school demeanor, there isn’t any indication that Manning could transfer. All of that could change at a moment’s notice, but Sarkisian will have an extra stressor this season at Texas, especially with teams potentially tampering and trying to poach him in the transfer portal.
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