Saints Eye Texas Star QB Quinn Ewers as Heir to Derek Carr in Bold Draft Move
Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers put together an impressive 2024 season, throwing for 3,472 yards and 31 touchdowns—leading the SEC in that category. His efficiency rating of 149 and completion percentage of 65.8% (293-of-445) highlighted his ability as a passer, though he also tossed 12 interceptions. Despite his strong numbers, some analysts have concerns about his draft stock. Pro Football Focus currently ranks Ewers as the No. 8 quarterback and the No. 142 overall prospect, suggesting he might not be a high selection.
However, ESPN’s Matt Miller sees a different scenario. In his latest mock draft, he has Ewers going much earlier, landing with the New Orleans Saints at No. 40 overall. If this projection holds, Ewers would be positioned as the future successor to Derek Carr.
“Ewers has injury concerns, but he did lead Texas to consecutive College Football Playoff semifinal appearances,” Miller noted. “He’s a touch-and-timing passer who would fit well in new coach Kellen Moore’s offense. While he doesn’t add much as a runner and needs to process the field quicker, his arm talent and mechanics suggest he could develop into an NFL starter.”
With Carr entering the third year of his four-year, $150 million contract, New Orleans doesn’t have an immediate need at quarterback. The veteran has been solid over the past two seasons, completing 564-of-827 passes for 6,023 yards, 40 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions in 27 starts.
If Ewers lands in New Orleans, he would have the opportunity to learn behind a four-time Pro Bowler for at least two seasons before potentially taking the reins. This scenario would give the Saints a chance to groom their next franchise quarterback while maintaining stability with Carr in the short term.
