Quinn Ewers, the former Texas Longhorns quarterback, is officially on his way to starting his professional football career. The Miami Dolphins took their chances on him, selecting him with the 231st overall pick in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. Despite a series of challenges, including a late selection among his peers, Ewers’ performance in college and his preparation for the draft demonstrated his readiness for the next level.
Ewers was at his best in a record-setting 2024 campaign, where he paced the entire SEC with 31 touchdown tosses, despite sitting out of two contests. His phenomenal play fueled the Longhorns to back-to-back appearances in the College Football Playoff semifinals. This achievement reiterates just how tall his talent and unshakeable resolve looms. Even though 12 other quarterbacks were picked ahead of him in the draft, Ewers did not let that deter his belief of where he was headed.
In the days before the combine in Indianapolis, Ewers was transported back to a comfortable setting— Southlake Carroll’s indoor facility. There, he deepened his craft and caught a glimpse of what was to come. Leading up to draft night, he was very hands on with a number of teams. He even had dinner with the New Orleans Saints’ contingent at Perry’s Steakhouse in downtown Austin.
Besides the QB drills, Ewers dazzled throughout the throwing session, showcasing his pure talent. He throws 22 different types of throws on the money showing impressive accuracy, touch, and power. He took us through one hour of training in which he delivered an astounding 50 passes out of 59 attempts. Only four were withdrawn, and five failed to meet the standard. His preparation and effort were evident at the combine. He clocked in at 214 pounds, adding on 14-15 pounds in only four weeks with an astounding 11 of those coming from lean muscle.
“With preparation comes confidence, right? I don’t want to say I was overprepared, but I was prepared a lot. I think I did a really good job with the whole process and look forward to seeing how it ends up affecting everything that happens in the future.” – Quinn Ewers
It was more than his numbers that made Ewers’ commitment to improvement stand out. An anonymous scout from one of the teams that interviewed him at the combine expressed amazement at his metamorphosis from five years ago.
“But he lost weight, got in shape, got on a diet, cut his hair, showed he can be a leader. There’s been really good growth. And he knows it, and he can articulate all that.” – Scout from a team that interviewed Quinn Ewers at the combine.
Seeking to keep his life from being all about football, Ewers found time during the draft process to reflect. A recent hunting trip provided him the necessary space to clear his mind when, on his first trip, he successfully landed a bison. This break helped him maintain perspective amid the pressures of preparing for a career in the NFL.
He had a productive visit with the Pittsburgh Steelers on March 24 – in Austin. While in the meeting, he learned that he clicked with head coach Mike Tomlin. These kinds of interactions were a key staple of his draft experience as he focused on impressing future employers.
“You don’t know if some of these teams are just pump-faking you to play chess with other teams, or if they really like you,” – Quinn Ewers
Teammate Matthew Golden, who experienced Ewers’ leadership as closely as anyone, said the emotionless player was all of that and more.
On the field, Ewers is extremely sure of himself. He feels that his particular set of skills are more conducive to the NFL as opposed to college football.
“His grit and determination. He’s a leader on and off the field for us,” – Matthew Golden
As he turns the page on this new chapter with the Miami Dolphins, Ewers recognizes the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Now he’s looking forward to what’s next.
“I think my game fits the NFL better than it does in college, honestly. I’m ready for the next step.” – Quinn Ewers
His path illustrates not just what’s in his toolbox, but how he’s changed and grown as a player.
“Maybe not as excited, but it’s the same opportunity that every guy that was drafted in front of me is getting,” – Quinn Ewers
His journey reflects not only his skill set but also his evolution as a player.
“You watch some guys throw, and it’s all effort and exerting all of their strength to throw the ball. With Quinn, it’s a click of the wrist and the ball goes 40 yards.” – Jeff Christensen
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