As the 2024 college football season progresses, Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers remains a topic of discussion for NFL draft analysts, despite a rollercoaster season marked by injury and inconsistent play.
ESPN draft analyst Steve Muench recently weighed in on potential NFL landing spots for Ewers, suggesting two intriguing destinations: the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams.
Muench believes the 49ers could be an ideal match for Ewers, citing the potential need for a quarterback transition. Current starter Brock Purdy is set to enter the final year of his rookie contract in 2025, and his performance this season has cast doubt on his long-term future with the team. Although Purdy has shown flashes of potential, his struggles against man coverage and inconsistent play have left the 49ers, currently 3-4, in a precarious position.
Muench argues that Ewers could be targeted late in the first round or potentially in the second, where the 49ers hold multiple Day 2 picks. At 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, Ewers is one of the most naturally talented passers entering the draft and could benefit from learning under 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. Since taking over in 2017, Shanahan has shown a knack for developing quarterbacks, and Ewers could represent the next chapter in San Francisco’s offensive evolution.
Another potential destination for Ewers is with the Los Angeles Rams. Although the Rams don’t have a second-round pick due to trading up for DT Braden Fiske in the 2024 draft, they might still be able to acquire Ewers with a late first-round selection or by trading back into the second round. Muench gives Ewers a second-round grade but notes that he still has time to improve his draft stock over the remainder of the season.
Muench envisions Ewers learning the ropes under veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, who could serve as a mentor during Ewers’ transition to the NFL. Under the guidance of Rams head coach Sean McVay, Ewers would have the opportunity to learn from one of the most innovative offensive minds in the league. “I love the idea of Ewers backing up Stafford while learning the offense,” Muench said, emphasizing the value of patience and development in Ewers’ NFL career.
Ewers’ Season So Far
Ewers entered the 2024 season as a top Heisman candidate, but an abdominal strain sidelined him for 2.5 games, affecting his rhythm and performance. In six games, he has thrown for 1,389 yards, 14 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Although his Heisman hopes have dimmed, Ewers still has four regular-season games left to elevate his draft profile, especially if he can lead Texas to a deep run in the College Football Playoff.
As Texas prepares for its next game against Florida on Nov. 9 following a bye week, Ewers will have ample opportunity to showcase his skills to NFL scouts. While he may be out of the Heisman race, a strong finish to the season could still push him back into first-round draft discussions.
With the NFL Draft looming in April, Ewers’ performance over the next few months could shape his professional future. Whether it’s the 49ers, Rams, or another team, Ewers’ talent and potential make him an intriguing prospect for franchises looking for the next quarterback to build around. NFL teams will be watching closely, and for Ewers, every play counts as he continues his journey from college standout to potential first-round pick.