Quinn Ewers left a lot of money on the table.
After last season at Texas, Ewers still had college football eligibility. He wasn't expected to stay with the Longhorns, because it was Arch Manning's time there. But as a prominent QB, Ewers had lots of chances to go elsewhere.
In fact, Pro Football Talk reports that Ewers would've made $4 million if he chose to transfer and play for the University of Miami.
Ewers chose to enter the NFL Draft instead. He didn't get chosen until the seventh round, ironically by the Miami Dolphins.
This season for the Dolphins, Ewers will make $840,000.
Endorsement deals close the gap between Ewers' NFL salary and what his NIL contract may have looked like in college, but that's still a notable gap.
Ewers was actually asked by reporters this week about just that, and he gave an honest answer.
“I felt like it was time to pursue my ultimate dream,” Ewers said. “That’s being an NFL quarterback and being an NFL player. Sure, I had opportunities to go continue on and play in college, but I feel like I was ready to take that next step and I’m glad I did.”
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Ewers is one of three quarterbacks currently lined up to make the Dolphins' roster.
Tua Tagovailoa is the starter, although it's notable that he's rather injury-prone.
Zach Wilson is in line to be the backup. The former No. 2 overall pick by the Jets, Wilson spent this past season with the Broncos behind Bo Nix.
And then there's Ewers, who has gotten strong reviews so far in training camp and seems likely to make the team and learn from the veterans in front of him.
At this point, Ewers can't go back and change his mind. He's focused on making the most of what comes next.
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