Texas Quarterback Ewers Leaves Early for NFL, Rumored $6M NIL Deal Remains Unclear

Quinn Ewers, a Texas junior quarterback, has announced his plan to enter the 2025 NFL Draft in a surprising move that was preceded by rumors of a substantial Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) package worth $6 million. This decision opens the door for Arch Manning, a highly touted recruit, to take over the starting quarterback position at Texas. Ewers' career at Texas was marked by accomplishments, such as leading the Longhorns to back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances. However, his final season was marred by injuries and some inconsistent performances, including a harmful fumble in their loss to Ohio State. Despite his achievements, questions remain about where he will be drafted in the upcoming NFL draft. The NIL era has transformed college sports, allowing players like Carson Beck to earn significant amounts, such as the reported $4 million package he received for transferring to Miami. For Ewers, the possibility of a $6 million NIL offer reflects the escalating value of college athletes. While Ewers faced some setbacks in his final season, he still threw a career-high 31 touchdowns, albeit with an increased number of interceptions. Ewers' departure creates an opportunity for Arch Manning, who now has the chance to show if he can live up to the considerable hype surrounding him. Manning will take over as the full-time starter, putting him in the spotlight and giving him the chance to demonstrate his skills on a larger stage.