Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger is currently weighing his options on whether to return for a fifth year or declare for the 2021 NFL Draft.
The beloved senior doesn’t plan to make a firm decision until after Texas appears in the Valero Alamo Bowl against Colorado on Dec. 29. It’s a unique situation for Ehlinger considering the COVID-19 implications this season along with the uncertainty of the coaching staff.
Many believe Ehlinger is leaning towards declaring for the NFL Draft as he accepted the Reese’s Senior Bowl invite in November. Since then, Texas was eliminated from Big 12 title contention. Did that leave a sour taste in his mouth?
It’s a tough decision to make in itself, but Ehlinger will have to add in the fact that head coach Tom Herman may not be with the team next season.
What’s best for Texas? What’s best for Ehlinger as a player? There’s numerous pro’s and con’s to each. Ehlinger is closing in on numerous school records held by former quarterback Colt McCoy. Does he want to secure a Big 12 title prior to his departure?
If Ehlinger does return, he’ll be without star left tackle Samuel Cosmi and wide receiver Brennan Eagles. However, at that point you’re not just risking injury, you’re also potentially banking on everything going smoothly with a an entirely new coaching staff.
Take a look at the dueling opinions of Longhorns Wire staff members Patrick Conn and Cami Griffin below.
Patrick Conn – Return for another season
Sam Ehlinger should return for one more year, but it has very little to do with the fact that the team needs him. It has more to do with his NFL Draft stock. Throughout the season there were flashes of improvement in his game but down the stretch, it was more of a regression.
A return in 2021 would only help his draft stock. Ehlinger needs to work on throwing with anticipation. Throwing where the receiver is going and not where he is. His touch on throws down the field outside the numbers have been an issue, Ehlinger could use another year to work with a quarterback coach before making the jump to the NFL.
Whether or not he stays, Texas will be in good hands with Hudson Card.
Cami Griffin – Declare for NFL Draft
Ehlinger is a very knowledgeable person and I know he will make the right decision for his future. In my opinion, I don’t believe returning for another season will drastically impact his draft stock enough to warrant the risk at stake. It’s best for Texas if Ehlinger moves on.
He will always be one of the most beloved, talented and accomplished quarterbacks to ever play at the University of Texas. Regardless of who is the head coach next season, I truly believe that the quarterback competition should be opened up. Hudson Card appears to be a more prolific passer than Ehlinger, which is something that significantly held the Longhorns back this season.
It’s time for Texas to value winning over likability or experience.