Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers was once considered a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but recent developments suggest he has work to do in order to reclaim that lofty status. As the 2024 college football season heads into the home stretch, Ewers’ draft stock appears to be slipping, with some analysts projecting him as a day-three pick.
In Athlon Sports’ latest mock draft, NFL insider Luke Easterling doesn’t have Ewers being selected in the first round, a stark contrast to the early buzz that surrounded him just months ago. While it’s still too early to determine exactly how far Ewers might fall on draft night, it’s clear that his performance over the next few weeks, especially with the possibility of a College Football Playoff berth, will be crucial in shaping his future.
Ewers’ Shift to a Fourth-Round Projection
One of the most telling indicators of Ewers’ changing draft status comes from Cam Mellor of College Football Network. In his most recent NFL mock draft, Mellor has Ewers being selected by the New Orleans Saints with the No. 112 overall pick in the fourth round. A fourth-round selection is a far cry from the first-round projections he once enjoyed and underscores how much work Ewers needs to do to prove himself worthy of a higher pick.
Being drafted in the fourth round is a tricky proposition for any quarterback. While it’s still a legitimate opportunity to make an NFL roster, it’s not a guaranteed path to a starting job, especially with the pressure to immediately perform. However, Ewers could find a potentially intriguing landing spot with the Saints.
The Saints’ Quarterback Situation
New Orleans’ current quarterback situation could open the door for Ewers to compete for a role, especially given the uncertain future of their starting quarterback, Derek Carr. Carr, a four-time Pro Bowler, has been sidelined with injuries this season, which has allowed backups like Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler to get valuable reps. Both Haener and Rattler were also day-three picks, highlighting how uncertain the quarterback depth chart is in New Orleans.
Carr’s four-year, $150 million contract is set to run through the 2026 season, but the Saints have a potential out after the 2025 season. However, releasing Carr would come with a massive $50.1 million dead cap hit, per Spotrac, which complicates any potential move. Still, with the uncertainty surrounding Carr’s future, Ewers could find himself in the mix to eventually replace the veteran quarterback, depending on his development and the Saints’ willingness to invest in a young talent.
A College Football Playoff Berth Could Be Ewers’ Ticket to Reclaiming His Draft Status
Despite the current dip in his draft projection, all hope is not lost for Ewers. If Texas can make a run at the College Football Playoff and Ewers shines on the big stage, his draft stock could rise dramatically. In today’s NFL, a strong postseason performance can turn a player’s career trajectory around, especially for quarterbacks who thrive under pressure.
Ewers has the tools to be a successful NFL quarterback. His arm strength, mobility, and ability to make plays in big moments are attributes that NFL teams covet. But with the draft just months away, it will be important for Ewers to put together a strong finish to the season and show that he can consistently perform at a high level.
The Road Ahead for Quinn Ewers
As of now, Ewers’ path to the NFL looks far more uncertain than it did earlier in the year. Once projected as a potential top-10 pick, he now finds himself battling to prove he belongs in the first few rounds. But with the draft still several months away, there’s plenty of time for him to turn things around.
A College Football Playoff appearance could be just the opportunity Ewers needs to elevate his draft stock back into first-round consideration. If he can lead the Longhorns to a playoff berth and perform well under the national spotlight, NFL teams will be paying attention. However, if Ewers’ struggles continue, he could find himself fighting for a spot in the middle rounds, with his future in the NFL uncertain.
For now, all eyes will be on Ewers and the Longhorns as they close out the season, with his draft stock hanging in the balance.
