Who is Quinn Ewers? What to know about the Dolphins’ new starting quarterback

The Miami Dolphins have turned to an unexpected name at quarterback as their 2025 season takes another sharp turn. Following Tua Tagovailoa’s benching after a string of disappointing performances, rookie Quinn Ewers is set to make his first NFL start, stepping into the spotlight against the Cincinnati Bengals. For many fans, the obvious question now is simple: who exactly is Quinn Ewers?

From Texas prodigy to NFL

Quinn Ewers arrives in Miami with a college resume that once made him one of the most talked-about quarterback prospects in the country. A former Texas Longhorns star, Ewers played a central role in leading the program back to national relevance. During his time in Austin, he guided Texas to consecutive College Football Playoff appearances and finished his college career as one of the school’s most productive passers.



Statistically, Ewers ranks third all-time at Texas in passing yards and passing touchdowns, throwing for over 9,000 yards and 68 scores. His best season came in 2024, when he threw 31 touchdowns and earned All-SEC and All-Big 12 honors across his college career. Despite that production, questions about arm strength and consistency pushed him down draft boards.

Ewers was ultimately selected by the Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, taken 231st overall. The slide reflected league-wide skepticism about his long-term upside as a starter, but Miami viewed him as a developmental option with strong football IQ and poise.

Why did Miami turn to Quin Ewers now?

The decision to start Ewers came after Miami’s 28-15 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game in which Tagovailoa struggled under pressure. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel admitted afterward that quarterback play was “not good enough,” signaling that changes were coming. With Miami eliminated from playoff contention, the team has opted to evaluate its younger options rather than stick with the status quo.



Notably, Ewers was chosen ahead of former first-round pick Zach Wilson, a move that underscores the coaching staff’s desire to see what the rookie can offer in live action.

At 22, Ewers brings solid size, a quick release, and a reputation for processing defenses well. He is comfortable operating short and intermediate passing concepts and has shown touch and anticipation when protected. However, concerns remain about his deep-ball consistency, pocket awareness under heavy pressure, and injury history dating back to college.

Whether he emerges as a long-term option or settles into a backup role, Quinn Ewers now has the chance he’s been waiting for, and the Dolphins are watching closely.

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