Steve Sarkisian Bids Farewell to Quinn Ewers, Reflecting on His Impact and Why He Was Always Ahead of Arch Manning

In a heartfelt and reflective message, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian bid farewell to quarterback Quinn Ewers as the talented signal-caller prepares for the next chapter in his football career. Ewers, who entered the University of Texas as one of the most highly touted quarterbacks in recent memory, delivered a stellar performance during his time in Austin, and his legacy will be etched in Longhorns history for years to come.

Sarkisian’s words were more than just a goodbye; they were a testament to Ewers’ growth, resilience, and leadership. But they also clarified a key point: Ewers, who had become the undisputed starting quarterback for the Longhorns over the course of his two years in Austin, was always a step ahead of Arch Manning, the next heir to the Longhorns’ quarterback throne.

“I’m incredibly proud of everything Quinn has accomplished during his time here at Texas,” Sarkisian said, addressing the media after Ewers’ departure was confirmed. “From the day he arrived on campus, he embraced the challenge of playing at the highest level. What people may not fully understand is how much his leadership, his work ethic, and his development in the system have meant to this program. His journey wasn’t always easy, but that’s what makes his story so special. He wasn’t just talented, he was driven, and that’s what set him apart.”

Ewers’ Texas tenure was marked by highs and lows, but overall, his growth under Sarkisian’s tutelage was evident. After transferring from Ohio State, Ewers showed flashes of brilliance, including an early-season win over Alabama in 2022 that helped to solidify his place as a top quarterback prospect. His cannon-like arm, poise under pressure, and ability to read defenses made him a force on the field. Despite dealing with injuries and inconsistency in his early years, Ewers demonstrated his ability to rally the team, and his leadership became one of the most respected aspects of his game.

However, when it came to the rivalry with Arch Manning, who joined the Longhorns in 2023 as one of the most hyped recruits in college football history, Sarkisian made it clear that Ewers was always going to be the man in charge for the Longhorns.

“Arch is a phenomenal talent, and there’s no doubt that he’s going to do great things here,” Sarkisian acknowledged. “But it’s important to understand that Quinn Ewers’ experience, his understanding of our offense, and his maturity as a quarterback were always going to be the difference. There was never a question about who was the guy for us in 2023. Quinn earned that spot—not by default, but by his hard work and his performance.”

Ewers’ mastery of Sarkisian’s complex offensive system, which requires precision, decision-making, and a high football IQ, set him apart from the competition. Although Manning, the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, had an incredibly high ceiling, Ewers’ command of the offense was unrivaled. Sarkisian emphasized that while Manning was undoubtedly one of the most promising quarterbacks in the nation, it was Ewers’ advanced understanding of the game, honed through years of experience, that earned him the starting role and solidified his place as the team leader.

“In the quarterback world, it’s not just about physical talent, although that’s important,” Sarkisian continued. “It’s about how quickly you can adapt to the speed of the game, how well you can read defenses, how you can get your teammates to buy into your vision. Quinn did that from day one. Arch is a young player, and he’s going to have his time, but Quinn was ahead of him, and that’s just the reality of the situation.”

Sarkisian also noted that Ewers’ mentorship and leadership were vital for the development of the Longhorns’ quarterback room, including Manning. “Quinn took Arch under his wing from the very first day he arrived on campus,” Sarkisian said. “He didn’t just focus on his own development, but also made sure that Arch had the support he needed to succeed. That speaks to the kind of person Quinn is—he understands what it means to be a leader, not just a quarterback.”

For Ewers, his decision to leave Texas was bittersweet. Having already accomplished so much in his college career, including leading the Longhorns to a Big 12 Championship and a berth in the College Football Playoff, Ewers has set his sights on the NFL, where his skills and potential are expected to translate seamlessly. However, Ewers made it clear that his time at Texas and his relationship with Sarkisian were integral to his growth both on and off the field.

“Coach Sark and I have a bond that goes beyond football,” Ewers said in a statement. “From day one, he’s believed in me, pushed me, and helped me become the player I am today. His offense taught me so much, and his guidance has been invaluable. I’m proud of everything we accomplished at Texas, and I’m excited for what’s next, but I’ll always be a Longhorn at heart.”

Looking ahead, Sarkisian expressed his confidence in Manning’s ability to take over as the face of the Texas program, but he didn’t shy away from acknowledging the uniqueness of the situation. “We’re not just talking about a guy who has a famous last name—Arch is the real deal,” Sarkisian said. “But it’s going to take time. The development process isn’t always linear, and it’s important that Arch learns from the ground up, just like every great quarterback does. He’ll have his moment, and he’s in good hands with the system we’ve built here.”

For now, Texas fans are left to reflect on the impact Quinn Ewers had during his time in Austin and look forward to the future with Arch Manning under center. But as Sarkisian’s farewell message made clear, Ewers’ legacy will always remain an important chapter in the Longhorns’ quarterback history.

In the end, it wasn’t just talent that set Ewers apart—it was his readiness, his leadership, and his understanding of the game that made him the undeniable choice as Texas’ starting quarterback. And as Manning prepares to take over, it’s clear that the foundation Ewers helped build will serve as the springboard for whatever success comes next.