Former Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers faced some backlash after making the bold decision to forgo his remaining college eligibility. Reports indicated he had a $4 million NIL offer on the table to return—possibly to a school other than Texas, where Arch Manning is expected to take over this season.
Instead, Ewers chose to enter the NFL draft, where he was selected in the seventh and final round with the No. 231 overall pick by the Miami Dolphins.
While his rookie contract is worth slightly more than the reported NIL offer—an estimated $4.3 million over four years—it led many to question whether he should have played one more season at the college level.
Nonetheless, Ewers made a major business move this week, announcing on Friday that he signed an exclusive autograph and trading card deal with Panini, reportedly worth $3 million.
“Excited to announce that I have signed an exclusive autograph trading card deal with @paniniamerica for my NFL trading cards,” Ewers wrote. “Thank you @paniniamerica for helping me tell my story and continuing our relationship! I can’t wait to see my first NFL trading cards! #RatedRookie.”
The Dolphins’ quarterback room could eventually present Quinn Ewers with a significant opportunity. For now, the starting job belongs to Tua Tagovailoa, though his long-term future in Miami remains uncertain due to a history of injuries and inconsistent evaluations as a franchise quarterback.
Behind Tagovailoa, Miami signed former first-round pick Zach Wilson this offseason. Wilson is expected to serve as the backup, while Ewers will begin the year as the third quarterback on the depth chart.
Former Longhorns Quinn Ewers participates in Texas’ Pro Day at the Texas Football Training Facility on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK
Ewers entered college as a highly touted five-star recruit, initially committing to Ohio State. After failing to win the starting job there, he transferred to Texas, where he spent the past three seasons.
During his time with the Longhorns, he helped lead the team to a 33–10 record, reaching bowl games each year and advancing to the College Football Playoff semifinals in the final two seasons.
