After waiting a long time, Quinn Ewers was selected as the 231st pick by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With Arch Manning poised to take his place at Texas, Ewers faced the prospect of playing elsewhere in 2025. He entered the draft amidst doubts about his arm strength and lingering injuries from the 2024 season with Texas.

Amid the NIL era, Day 3 of the NFL Draft often raises the question of whether players could have benefited financially by staying in school. While many players opt for the draft for reasons beyond money, this aspect is always part of the decision. The estimated value for draft pick 231 is roughly $4.3 million over four years. However, as a potential starting quarterback with SEC experience, Ewers might have earned over $3 million by transferring to another school, possibly even reaching $4 million if he had the right options, given deals like Carson Beck’s.

Had he gone through the transfer portal, schools like Miami, Notre Dame and other prestigious programs would have likely pursued him.

Ultimately, there was little doubt Ewers would turn pro this season, and starting that journey clock begins counting towards his opportunity for a lucrative second contract if he proves himself in the league.