Quinn Ewers transfer rumors: These two programs are the top contenders

Quinn Ewers has been a pivotal force behind the Texas Longhorns' remarkable run to the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff. Preparing to face No. 4 seed Arizona State, Ewers has one mission: lead Texas to a national title. But beyond the playoff spotlight, whispers about his future are growing louder.

With Arch Manning waiting in the wings and NFLscouts suggesting another year in college could benefit him, Ewers is caught at a crossroads. Will he declare for the NFL Draft, or will he take his talents to another college program in 2025? If he opts for the latter, two big-name programs-Oregon and North Carolina-are emerging as prime landing spots.

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Oregon, the top seed in the College Football Playoff, has built a reputation for success with transfer quarterbacks. From Bo Nix to Dillon Gabriel, the Ducks have thrived under center with experienced players looking to shine on a national stage. Ewers, with his raw talent and high ceiling, could be the next to benefit from Oregon's system. Former NFL star Dez Bryant has already thrown his behind this potential pairing, stating that Eugene could be the perfect place for Ewers to develop into an elite prospect.

The North Carolina Tar Heels, meanwhile, have quietly positioned themselves as another intriguing option. With their own quarterback room in flux and the arrival of a head coach like the legendary Bill Belichick , Chapel Hill could provide Ewers with the stability and spotlight he needs to refine his game. The Tar Heels have shown they can elevate quarterback prospects, making them an attractive choice for a player seeking to prove himself one last time before going pro.

Quinn Ewers' unpredictable journey: A potential fresh start looms after Texas playoff run

Ewers' journey has been anything but straightforward. A former five-star recruit, he initially committed to Ohio State before transferring to Texas. While he's had standout moments with the Longhorns, inconsistency has plagued his tenure. A fresh start at a program like Oregon or North Carolina could be exactly what he needs to cement his NFL potential.

The decision, however, might come sooner than expected. If Texas' playoff run ends prematurely, Ewers could quickly shift his focus to his next move. For now, though, he remains locked in on leading the Longhorns to a championship-a fitting sendoff if it is indeed his final act in burnt orange.

As the speculation swirls, one thing is clear: wherever Ewers lands, the stakes will be sky-high.