Generally, NFL scouts put a greater emphasis on big games when evaluating players. How did that player do against tough competition? Saturday’s demolition of Michigan could have a huge impact on Quinn Ewers draft prospects.
Longtime NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. was certainly watching the Longhorns game in Ann Arbor and was impressed with Ewers performance.
“The way he can sling it. And the composure and how calm and relaxed he seems. He just doesn’t change his demeanor. I think he is one of these unflappable quarterbacks that you want to have under center. … With all these eyes on this game, he acted like it was ‘ho-hum’ It was just like no big deal to Quinn Ewers. In my opinion, he’s got to be right there as the elite quarterback in this draft, the QB1.” — Mel Kiper Jr.
NFL teams are so desperate for good QB talent, the scouts flock to a big game like Texas at Michigan to get a good look up close and personal. NFL Draft expert Field Yates, who appeared with Kiper on this draft segment, said an in-person scouting report can be key.
“You can not overstate just how influential the in-person scouting can be for high-level decision makers. … There is so much you can pick up. When you’re on the field, how does a player prepare before a game? What does his body type look like? If these GMs are just watching film, a guy can look 6’2″ when they’re actually 6’4″ when you actually meet them in person. Quinn Ewers is a quarterback, so how is he interacting with his offensive line before a game? How is he warming up with his receivers before a game? How does the roster respond to him? Some of the leadership intangibles … are much more measurable when you are actually boots on the ground.” — Field Yates
Indeed, according to multiple reports, there was a host of NFL brass and scouts at the game.
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We’ll see what happens the rest of the season, but Ewers certainly helped his draft status at the Big House.