**Steve Sarkisian Bids Farewell to Quinn Ewers, Reflecting on His Impact and Why He Was Always Ahead of Arch Manning**
In a heartfelt message that has captivated the college football world, Steve Sarkisian, head coach of the University of Texas Longhorns, bid farewell to quarterback Quinn Ewers, reflecting on the player’s pivotal role in the team’s success and the journey they shared. Ewers, who recently declared for the NFL Draft after two seasons at Texas, leaves a lasting legacy under Sarkisian’s tutelage—one that has cemented his place as a key figure in the program’s ongoing resurgence.
Sarkisian, who worked closely with Ewers since his arrival at Texas, praised the quarterback’s growth, leadership, and exceptional talent. “Quinn came to us with immense potential, and he truly lived up to it,” Sarkisian said in his statement. “His journey wasn’t always easy, but he showed incredible resilience, both on and off the field. It’s been a pleasure watching him develop into one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the nation.”
Ewers, who transferred to Texas from Ohio State in 2021, arrived with high expectations. As a highly touted recruit, he quickly became the face of the Longhorns’ quarterback room. His ability to make every throw, coupled with his strong leadership skills, set him apart in a competitive environment. Sarkisian noted that Ewers’ consistency and mental fortitude helped elevate the program, leading to a resurgence for Texas after years of mediocrity. His performance, especially in big games, proved he was capable of handling the immense pressure that comes with playing for such a storied program.
However, it wasn’t just Ewers’ performance that earned him a special place in Sarkisian’s plans—it was his role in shaping the future of Texas football. While much attention has been placed on the arrival of Arch Manning, one of the most highly anticipated quarterback prospects in years, Sarkisian emphasized that Ewers was always ahead of Manning in terms of readiness and experience.
“Arch is an incredibly talented young man, and we’re excited for his future here,” Sarkisian said. “But Quinn was always going to be the guy ahead of him, simply because of his experience and the development he underwent in our system. Arch has a bright future, but Quinn has been the leader for us, and he set a standard that will guide us forward.”
As Ewers transitions to the next phase of his career, he leaves behind a Texas program that is poised to continue its upward trajectory. Sarkisian expressed confidence in the future, but acknowledged that Ewers’ legacy would always be a key part of Texas’ comeback story.
“Quinn’s impact on this program cannot be overstated,” Sarkisian concluded. “He laid the foundation, and now we build upon it with the players who follow. I’m proud of everything he accomplished, and I can’t wait to see him shine at the next level.”