Quinn Ewers focused on winning a national championship, not NFL Draft decision

Quinn Ewers hasn’t given the slightest thought to the NFL Draft yet, so he says. The Texas Longhorns’ quarterback is focused on the College Football Playoff and trying to win it all.

It’s the right message to send. Although Ewers could climb NFL Draft boards with bigger performances in potentially two more games this season.

Whether wins or losses determine his decision, Ewers won’t budge on his answer. The only answer right now is to win the title.

“No decision,” Ewers said. “I’m just trying to win a national championship.”

Texas finished 12-1 and as Big 12 Champions, getting in as the No. 3 team in the country. The Longhorns will take on No. 2 Washington in the Sugar Bowl for a chance to play for a national championship.

“I think in the back of our heads, we always knew that if we were going to win the Big 12 championship that, you know, other accolades would probably come with it,” Ewers said. “So I mean, our bullseye is on a national championship for sure.”

In 11 games this season, Ewers had 3,161 yards, 21 touchdowns, six interceptions and a 70.7% completion percentage. But he went off in the Big 12 title game against Oklahoma State.

In the 49-21 win, Ewers went 35-of-46 passing for 452 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. 

“It’s just super cool,” Ewers said of making the playoff, right after the reveal. “I mean, obviously just happened, so it’s still kind of sinking in but just super, super again, just proud of how this team handles everything that comes our way. 

“We just continue to do what we do and not worry about what’s going on outside of this building. We’re just blessed, super blessed to take part in this upcoming playoff.”

Texas had its chances last year, but Ewers’ injury practically derailed the Longhorns’ Big 12 and playoff hopes in 2022. This year, it’s a little bit different.

“I think there’s a dramatic difference,” Ewers said “We’ve been in a lot closer games, and last year I don’t think we closed out those close games. This year, I think we’re more than capable of staying poised and staying level headed and able to finish out those games.”

If Texas wants to relive the days of beating USC for a national championship, it’ll need Ewers at his best. It certainly seems like he’s peaking at the right time.

Ewers and Texas take on Washington in the CFP semifinal at the Sugar Bowl January 1 at 8:45 p.m. ET.