The 2025 NFL Draft took a surprising turn this year, especially when it came to quarterbacks. Unlike in past years where QBs dominated the first round, only two—Cam Ward and Jaxson Dart—were selected early. The rest, including 14 total quarterback picks, slipped into later rounds. One notable example is Quinn Ewers, who was the final QB selected in the draft.
With the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, college athletes now have opportunities to earn more than some pros. Ewers signed a four-year rookie contract with the Miami Dolphins worth approximately $4.33 million. However, he reportedly turned down potential one-year NIL offers that were worth even more. Miami Hurricanes offered about $4 million for one season, while Notre Dame was said to be willing to go as high as $8 million.
As the #231 overall pick, QB Quinn Ewers receives a $131,576 signing bonus per his rookie contract with the #Dolphins, the only guaranteed portion of the deal.
— Spotrac (@spotrac) May 9, 2025
Instead of taking those lucrative college deals, Ewers chose to enter the NFL and start his pro journey—even if that meant starting as a backup to Dolphins starter Tua Tagovailoa. According to Spotrac’s Michael Ginnitti, Ewers, picked 231st overall, received only a $131,576 signing bonus as the guaranteed portion of his rookie deal.
Ewers only had a brief four-day window to enter the transfer portal if he’d chosen to remain in college. He ultimately chose to pursue his NFL ambitions, despite falling far lower in the draft than expected. His agent, Ron Slavin, expressed frustration at how teams evaluated Ewers, stating that his client was considered too big of a name to be viewed simply as a benchwarmer.
Despite the financial contrast, Ewers remained positive about his decision. He emphasized his readiness for the NFL and said his playing style fits better in the professional league. Currently, he sits third on the Dolphins’ depth chart behind Tagovailoa and Zach Wilson.
Support has also come from his former coach, Steve Sarkisian, who praised Ewers for doing things the right way and choosing to pursue his goals after leaving a strong legacy at the University of Texas. Over his college career, Ewers racked up over 9,100 passing yards and 68 touchdowns, along with 8 rushing scores.
NFL scouts have compared him to Brock Purdy, another late-round QB who fought his way into a starting role. Some believe that if Tagovailoa struggles with performance or injury—issues that have plagued his previous seasons—Ewers may get an opportunity to prove himself. One scout even noted that the franchise and fanbase may eventually grow impatient with Tagovailoa, opening the door for someone like Ewers.
Ewers himself said he’s content with where he landed, regardless of when he was picked, and is focused on contributing to the Dolphins. As rookie minicamp begins, he’s ready to show the team—and the league—what he can bring to the table. His story may be just beginning, but it already stands out as one defined by ambition, sacrifice, and belief in his long-term potential.