Once considered a potential first-round selection, Ewers ended up as the 14th and final quarterback chosen, even behind less-heralded prospects like FCS standout Cam Miller.
Speaking openly with The Associated Press, Ewers admitted, “I didn’t expect to fall as low as I did,” but also shared his appreciation for the chance to prove himself at the next level.
Multiple factors contributed to Ewers’ draft-day tumble. His injury history—highlighted by oblique and ankle issues—sparked concerns about his long-term durability. While scouts praised his exceptional arm strength, they also pointed to inconsistent mechanics and questionable decisions under pressure as red flags. Some teams reportedly feared that Ewers’ high-profile background might cause unwanted distractions, especially in a backup role.
The strength of the 2025 quarterback class and added scrutiny from sharing the spotlight with Arch Manning at Texas may have further impacted his draft standing. Nevertheless, Ewers is eager to make the most of his opportunity with the Dolphins, where he’ll vie for a spot alongside Tua Tagovailoa and Zach Wilson.
“There’s a lot of competition right now, and everyone’s fighting for the same job,” Ewers said.
Miami head coach Mike McDaniel’s offense emphasizes vertical passing, which plays to Ewers’ strength in throwing deep. With Tagovailoa’s history of injuries, opportunities for playing time could arise.
Though his $4.3 million rookie contract is significantly less than the $6–8 million NIL deal he reportedly turned down, Ewers remains focused on his lifelong goal of playing in the NFL. Embracing his underdog status, he’s determined to show that the Dolphins may have snagged a hidden gem.
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