Samuel George Ehlinger Bio
Samuel George Ehlinger is an American professional football quarterback currently playing for the Denver Broncos in the National Football League (NFL). He began his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts after being selected in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Ehlinger played college football at the University of Texas at Austin, where he was a standout quarterback leading the Texas Longhorns to the 2018 Big 12 Championship Game and multiple bowl appearances.
Early Life and Background
Samuel Ehlinger was born on September 30, 1998, in Austin, Texas. He attended Westlake High School in Austin, where he played quarterback under coach Todd Dodge. Ehlinger graduated as the school’s all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns, surpassing notable NFL quarterbacks Drew Brees and Nick Foles. His high school success earned him recognition as the MaxPreps National Junior of the Year and a four-star recruit rating by Rivals.com. He received scholarship offers from several universities but committed to the University of Texas at Austin in 2015.
Path to American Football
At the University of Texas, Ehlinger competed for the starting quarterback position under head coach Tom Herman. He made his first career start in 2017 after an injury to the incumbent starter. Ehlinger quickly established himself as a dual-threat quarterback with strong passing and rushing abilities. His early college career featured notable performances, including leading Texas to victories in key games and earning accolades such as the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award Player of the Week.
Samuel George Ehlinger Career
Early Career (2017–2018)
Ehlinger’s freshman season in 2017 saw him start several games for the Longhorns, showcasing his potential despite sharing time with other quarterbacks. He set school records for passing yards by a true freshman and demonstrated his rushing capabilities. In 2018, Ehlinger secured the starting quarterback role, leading Texas to a 7–6 record and a Big 12 Championship Game appearance. He earned multiple player of the week honors and set school records for consecutive passes without interceptions.
Texas Longhorns Breakthrough (2019–2020)
In 2019, Ehlinger was a preseason favorite for several national awards and continued to break school records for passing yards, touchdowns, and total offense. He was named MVP of the Alamo Bowl after leading Texas to a victory. The 2020 season, shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, saw Ehlinger named second-team All-Big 12 and earn several weekly honors. He finished his college career ranked second in Texas history for career passing yards and touchdowns and third in rushing yards for a quarterback.
Indianapolis Colts Era (2021–2024)
Ehlinger was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2021 and signed a four-year rookie contract. His rookie season was interrupted by an ACL injury, but he returned to compete for the backup quarterback position. In 2022, he was promoted to starting quarterback mid-season, leading the team in several games. Despite mixed results, Ehlinger gained valuable NFL experience and was named the starter for the Colts’ final game of the 2022 season.
Denver Broncos Era (2025–Present)
In 2025, Ehlinger signed a one-year contract with the Denver Broncos. After initial roster moves involving releases and practice squad assignments, he was promoted to the active roster multiple times due to team injuries. Ehlinger has demonstrated resilience and adaptability as he continues to develop his professional career with the Broncos.
Playing Style and Strengths
Ehlinger is known for his dual-threat capabilities, combining accurate passing with effective rushing ability. His mobility allows him to extend plays and create opportunities both in the pocket and on the ground. He has shown leadership qualities and a competitive spirit, often rallying his team in critical moments.
Notable Events and Milestones
During his college career, Ehlinger earned the 2019 Sugar Bowl MVP and 2019 Alamo Bowl Offensive MVP honors. He set multiple school records at Texas, including consecutive passes without interception and rushing touchdowns by a quarterback. His transition to the NFL has included overcoming injury setbacks and earning starting opportunities with the Colts.
Samuel George Ehlinger Career Wins
Ehlinger has accumulated significant wins during his college tenure, including bowl game victories and key conference matchups. His professional career is ongoing, with starting opportunities and contributions to team successes in the NFL.
Texas Longhorns Highlights
Ehlinger led the Longhorns to the 2018 Big 12 Championship Game and earned MVP honors in the 2019 Sugar Bowl and Alamo Bowl. He set school records for passing yards, touchdowns, and total offense during his collegiate career. His leadership helped Texas secure multiple bowl victories and maintain competitive status in the Big 12 Conference.
Other Wins & Performances
Ehlinger’s high school career featured record-breaking performances, establishing him as a top recruit. His early NFL career includes notable starts and competitive playtime with the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos.
Samuel George Ehlinger Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Ehlinger is the son of Ross Ehlinger, who passed away in 2013. He has a younger brother, Jake, who played linebacker for the Texas Longhorns and tragically died in 2021. His family has been a significant influence throughout his athletic career.
Personal Life
Samuel Ehlinger is married to Cami Jo Ehlinger. He is a practicing Christian and has spoken about the importance of his faith. His personal experiences, including family losses, have shaped his character and approach to football and life.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Ehlinger joined the Denver Broncos on a one-year deal. Throughout the season, he experienced multiple roster moves but remained a key depth option at quarterback. His perseverance and readiness to contribute when called upon have been noted by the team. Ehlinger’s outlook remains positive as he continues to develop his NFL career and compete for playing time.