Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger will finish the year strong for his teammates.
If you’ve been blessed to witness Ehlinger’s relentless spirit over his four-year collegiate career, this shouldn’t come as a surprise. He’s the epitome of a true leader on and off the field.
During Tuesday’s media availability, Ehlinger received numerous questions regarding his decision to continue playing this season when there’s not much left to play for.
After the heartbreaking loss to Iowa State, left tackle Samuel Cosmi and safety Caden Sterns each announced their decision to forgo the remainder of the season to prepare for the 2021 NFL Draft. However, Ehlinger is choosing to take a different approach.
Texas QB Sam Ehlinger says he loves Cosmi, Sterns. On him opting out, "While I absolutely love and respect them, I would never do that. I want to finish what I’ve started here. I will always give my all for my teammates, and everybody’s situation is different."
— Brian Davis (@BDavisAAS) December 1, 2020
He’s exactly right. Cosmi and Sterns have a chance to be selected within the first few rounds of the draft, while players like Ehlinger and Jack linebacker Joseph Ossai could certainly improve their draft stock over the final two games.
Although it’s certainly reasonable for Cosmi and Sterns to not want to risk injury, Ehlinger continues to embody pure selflessness on a daily basis. The extra year of eligibility due to COVID-19 makes it possible for Ehlinger to return next season, but don’t hold your breath on that idea.
Ehlinger was honored on senior day prior to Texas facing Iowa State and has already accepted an invitation to participate in the Senior Bowl in January. The increasing uncertainty at the coaching position makes that option even less appealing for the senior quarterback.
“Still just enjoying every moment and I will reevaluate that a little bit later,” Ehlinger told the media on Tuesday of the possibility of him returning next season.
Although he wasn’t able to secure a Big 12 title during his tenure at Texas, Ehlinger will be remembered as one of the best quarterbacks to wear the burnt orange.
[vertical-gallery id=28131]