The amazing journey of Quinn Ewers from top-ranked recruit to seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Quinn Ewers’ path to the NFL was anything but conventional. From being hailed as the most hyped high school quarterback prospect since Vince Young to being selected by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Ewers’ journey is a testament to both his immense talent and the unpredictable nature of college football.

The Rise: High School Phenom

Ewers’ story began in the small town of Southlake, Texas, where he quickly became a household name. As a sophomore at Southlake Carroll High School, Ewers led his team to a state championship, showcasing an arm strength and poise that belied his age. By the time he was a senior, he had shattered numerous state records and was universally regarded as the top quarterback prospect in the nation.

His accolades were numerous: a five-star rating from 247Sports, the first-ever perfect 1.0000 composite rating, and the prestigious Gatorade National Player of the Year award. Ewers’ decision to reclassify and enroll early at Ohio State in 2021 only added to the hype, positioning him as the future face of the Buckeyes’ offense.

The Ohio State Experiment

Ewers’ time at Ohio State was brief and largely uneventful. After redshirting in 2021, he appeared in just one game, leading to his decision to transfer to the University of Texas. While his stint in Columbus didn’t provide the on-field experience many had anticipated, it did offer him a glimpse into the rigors of college football at the highest level.

Texas: The Longhorns’ Savior

Arriving in Austin with sky-high expectations, Ewers was thrust into the starting role for the Texas Longhorns. His first season was a mixed bag: flashes of brilliance were often marred by inconsistency. However, under the tutelage of head coach Steve Sarkisian, Ewers began to find his rhythm.

Over the next two seasons, Ewers led Texas to back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances, a feat that had eluded the program for years. In the 2023 Big 12 Championship Game, he delivered a standout performance, throwing for 452 yards and four touchdowns, earning MVP honors and setting a new conference title game record .

Despite these high points, Ewers’ tenure at Texas was also characterized by moments of inconsistency. He threw 12 interceptions in his junior season and struggled with turnovers in critical games, including a pivotal fumble in the 2024 College Football Playoff semifinal against Ohio State .

The 2025 NFL Draft: A Surprising Fall

Entering the 2025 NFL Draft, Ewers was initially projected as a potential Day 2 pick. His combination of size, arm strength, and collegiate experience made him an intriguing prospect. However, concerns about his consistency, mechanics, and decision-making led to a significant drop in his stock.

Despite his impressive college resume, Ewers was selected by the Miami Dolphins with the 231st overall pick in the seventh round. This marked a stark contrast to the lofty expectations that had surrounded him just a few years prior.

Strengths and Weaknesses: A Scouting Perspective

Strengths:

• Arm Talent: Ewers possesses a strong arm capable of making all the necessary throws at the NFL level. His ability to drive the ball downfield and fit passes into tight windows is among his most notable attributes.
• Experience: With over 30 college starts, Ewers brings a wealth of experience to the table. His familiarity with high-pressure situations and big-game environments is invaluable.
• Mobility: While not a dual-threat quarterback, Ewers has shown the ability to extend plays with his legs when necessary.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent Mechanics: Ewers’ footwork and throwing mechanics have been a point of contention throughout his college career. His tendency to rely on arm strength rather than proper technique has led to accuracy issues.
• Decision-Making: At times, Ewers has shown a propensity for risky throws and turnovers, particularly in critical moments.
• Ball Security: Fumbling has been a recurring issue, with 10 fumbles over the past two seasons .

The Dolphins’ Perspective

For the Miami Dolphins, selecting Ewers in the seventh round represents a low-risk, high-reward scenario. With established starters ahead of him, Ewers has the opportunity to develop without the immediate pressure of starting. The Dolphins’ coaching staff will aim to refine his mechanics and decision-making, hoping to unlock the potential that made him a top recruit years ago.

Looking Ahead

Ewers’ journey is far from over. While his path to the NFL has been unconventional, his story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of perseverance. With the right development and guidance, Ewers has the tools to carve out a successful career in the NFL.

As he embarks on this new chapter with the Miami Dolphins, the football world will be watching closely, eager to see if the once-promising phenom can fulfill the potential that made him a household name in the first place.