Quinn Ewers’ decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft sent shockwaves through the college football and NFL scouting communities. The Texas quarterback had been a highly anticipated prospect ever since his high school days, and his decision to enter the draft has significant implications for both the upcoming draft and the landscape of college football. Ewers’ choice to forgo his final year of eligibility at Texas prompted ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. to quickly update his rankings for the top quarterback prospects in the 2025 draft class, a move that signals just how highly regarded Ewers is by NFL scouts.
Ewers’ decision was made after a season in which he showed flashes of brilliance but also struggled with consistency. While he had standout moments, including impressive victories against tough opponents, he also had games where he failed to meet the high expectations placed on him. His physical tools—most notably his strong arm, ability to make deep throws, and mobility—have always been his standout qualities. Despite some of the growing pains during his time at Texas, his upside is undeniable, which is why many believe he is ready to take the next step into the NFL.
Mel Kiper, who is known for his meticulous draft evaluations, immediately adjusted his quarterback rankings to reflect Ewers’ entry into the 2025 draft class. Previously, Kiper had ranked Ewers in the second or third tier of quarterbacks, behind prospects like Caleb Williams of USC and Drake Maye of North Carolina. However, after Ewers’ announcement, Kiper elevated him into the top tier of quarterbacks, recognizing that his raw talent and potential may be enough to secure him a high spot in the draft, perhaps even in the top 10.
In Kiper’s new rankings, Ewers now sits alongside or just behind other top quarterbacks like Williams and Maye. Williams, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, is widely considered the consensus No. 1 overall pick in the draft, but the race for the second quarterback spot has become more competitive with Ewers entering the mix. Kiper acknowledged that while Ewers still has areas to refine—especially his decision-making and consistency—his tools are among the best in the class. He has the prototypical size (6-foot-2, 200 pounds) and arm strength that NFL teams covet, and his potential to develop into a star quarterback cannot be overlooked.
One of the key reasons why Ewers’ decision to declare for the draft is so significant is the depth of talent in the 2025 quarterback class. While Williams is the clear favorite to be the first quarterback selected, the competition behind him is fierce. In addition to Ewers, Kiper ranks Maye highly, with other quarterbacks like Bo Nix from Oregon, J.J. McCarthy from Michigan, and Michael Penix Jr. from Washington also making significant strides in their draft stock. This makes the quarterback class of 2025 one of the deepest in recent memory, with a number of intriguing options for NFL teams looking to add a franchise quarterback.
Ewers’ entry into the draft also adds another layer of intrigue for teams picking in the top 10. Quarterback-needy teams, such as those with young rosters looking for a long-term solution at the position, are likely to evaluate Ewers closely. If he can show that he can refine his game in the coming months leading up to the draft, he could solidify his position as one of the top quarterbacks available.
Overall, Kiper’s updated rankings reflect the excitement and uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position in the 2025 NFL Draft. Ewers has the potential to rise rapidly as the draft approaches, especially if he can continue to showcase his elite talent. As teams continue their evaluations, the decision to include Ewers in the top-tier of quarterbacks will be a crucial factor in shaping the narrative of the 2025 draft.
