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Not long ago, Quinn Ewers was considered one of the brightest quarterback prospects in the country. As a five-star recruit and the nation’s top player coming out of high school, he seemed destined for NFL stardom. But the 2025 NFL Draft had other plans.
Instead of hearing his name early, Ewers waited deep into the seventh round before the Miami Dolphins finally called. The emotional toll was visible, but perhaps even more devastating was the financial blow-missing out on a life-changing opportunity he once had in his grasp.
Breaking! Quinn Ewers declares for 2025 NFL Draft, paving the way for Arch Manning at Texas
A costly decision haunts Ewers
Earlier this year, Ewers reportedly turned down an $8 million NIL offer to stay in college for one more season. Believing he was ready for the pros, he entered the draft expecting a higher selection. Now, based on contract projections, Ewers is set to make less than $1 million per year-a stark contrast to the $8 million he could have secured by delaying his NFL dreams. In total, he left around $7 million on the table, a decision that may impact his future earnings and career trajectory in the league.
Battling perceptions and proving himself
Being drafted in the seventh round comes with serious challenges. Teams view later picks as developmental projects rather than immediate starters, meaning Ewers will need to fight for every opportunity. Despite playing with talented receivers at Texas, including future first-rounders, Ewers struggled to dominate the way scouts expected. Durability concerns and inconsistent performances raised doubts about his ability to lead an NFL offense. Now with Miami, he faces the daunting task of proving he belongs, possibly stepping in for Tua Tagovailoa if injuries strike.
Support off the field offers hope
In the aftermath of the draft, Ewers‘ girlfriend, Maddy Barnes, took to social media to express her support. In a heartfelt message, she celebrated his achievement while warning the league not to underestimate him. “Time to prove them wrong,” she wrote, showing confidence that Ewers will rise to the occasion. The road ahead won’t be easy, but if there’s one thing Ewers can rely on, it’s resilience-and perhaps a little motivation from those who believe in him the most.
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