Texas Football: 3 overreactions after UT's CFP semis loss to UW

Quinn Ewers won't be a first round NFL Draft pick unless he returns for another season

There was already a hunch before the Big 12 Championship Game on Dec. 2 against the Oklahoma State Cowboys that redshirt sophomore quarterback Quinn Ewers would return to school for another season.

But if the Playoff proved anything for Ewers, it was that he could use another season to hone in his skills and really reach his massive potential during his junior campaign.

Ewers did play well in the second half, keeping the Longhorns in the game and nearly leading them to a comeback win late in the fourth quarter against Washington. In the second half, Ewers threw for over 200 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions as he showed mental toughness and resilience to lead Texas back while playing in the bright spotlight of the CFP semis.

A report from Eric Nahlin of Inside Texas on Jan. 2 (paid content) noted that it is "still very likely" that Ewers returns to Texas for another season.

Another season of development at Texas could get Ewers into that first round conversation for the NFL Draft in 2025. He was already one of the most improved quarterbacks in the Power Five year-over-year this season.

Ewers finished up the 2023 campaign with a career-high in every major passing category. He registered nearly 3,500 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. Ewers graded out as the 11th best passer in the Power Five this season and the second best in the Big 12.

Since the 2025 NFL Draft class is pretty wide open at the quarterback position right now, Ewers could have a big opportunity next season to prove he's worthy of an early Day 1 selection in 2025.