The Texas Longhorns are facing a potential quarterback dilemma as they look ahead to the 2025 season. With Quinn Ewers having an inconsistent year, the question looms: will he declare for the NFL Draft or return for another season of college football? This decision could significantly impact the Longhorns’ future, especially with the highly-touted Arch Manning waiting in the wings.
Currently, Ewers has been the starting quarterback for Texas for three seasons. However, his performance this year has been a mixed bag, raising doubts about his draft status. Initially projected as a first-round pick, Ewers’ rocky season has seen him slip into lower-round projections. As the Longhorns aim for a spot in the College Football Playoff, the outcome of their postseason run could heavily influence Ewers’ decision. If he feels uncertain about his draft prospects after the playoffs, he might opt to stay in college for one more year.
Arch Manning: The Future Star
While Ewers contemplates his next move, Arch Manning has been making waves as his backup. Manning has already showcased his talent in limited play this season, stepping in for Ewers during critical moments. He started three games, throwing for an impressive 806 yards, with 10 total touchdowns and just two interceptions. His performance has proven that he is more than capable of leading the Longhorns, making the situation even more intriguing.
What happens if both Ewers and Manning are on the roster in 2025? This scenario could create an awkward dynamic for the Longhorns. Would the coaching staff prioritize Ewers, the seasoned starter, or Manning, the highly regarded newcomer? The stakes are high, and the potential for one of them to transfer could become a reality.
Manning’s presence complicates Ewers’ situation. If Ewers decides to return, it seems unlikely that Manning would be content to remain a backup for a third consecutive season. After all, Manning has proven he can handle the pressure and perform at a high level. If Ewers stays, Manning might seek opportunities elsewhere, especially if he feels he deserves a starting role.
What Lies Ahead for Ewers?
The speculation surrounding Ewers’ future is rampant. If he chooses to enter the transfer portal, he could become one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in college football. His talent and experience would attract numerous programs eager to add a player of his caliber. As FanSided’s Wynston Wilconx pointed out, Ewers could be the missing piece for a team looking to make a significant impact.
“It’s a real possibility Ewers departs to another program and is the missing piece to get them over the hump,” Wilconx noted. “If Ewers enters the transfer portal, his phone would blow up from all the calls he’s going to be getting to lure him to a prospective program.”
The Longhorns’ coaching staff likely anticipated Ewers declaring for the draft when they recruited Manning. With that in mind, they may have planned for Manning to take over as the incumbent starter. However, the uncertainty surrounding Ewers could alter those plans significantly.
Longhorns’ Playoff Aspirations
As the Longhorns strive for success in the College Football Playoff, their quarterback situation remains a focal point. Currently boasting a record of 10-1, Texas is in a strong position to make a deep playoff run. But how will the outcome of their postseason affect the quarterback competition?
If Ewers performs well and leads the team to victory, it could bolster his draft stock and solidify his position as the starter. On the flip side, a disappointing playoff performance might push him to reconsider his options. The stakes are high, and the Longhorns’ future hinges on the decisions made in the coming months.
Looking Ahead
The quarterback situation in Austin is anything but straightforward. With Ewers’ uncertain future and Manning’s undeniable talent, the Longhorns face a pivotal crossroads. If both players remain on the roster, one may have to make a tough decision about their future.
As the 2025 season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. Will Ewers declare for the draft, or will he return for one last shot at glory? And if he stays, what will that mean for Manning’s future with the Longhorns? The answers to these questions will shape the trajectory of Texas football for years to come.
In the world of college football, uncertainty often breeds excitement. The Longhorns are no exception. With a talented roster and high expectations, the upcoming months promise to be filled with intrigue and drama. All eyes will be on Austin as the Longhorns navigate their quarterback conundrum, hoping to emerge stronger than ever.
