5-star recruit Quinn Ewers has confirmed reports that he intends to forego his senior year of high school and enroll early at Ohio State.

He released a statement on the matter on Monday afternoon. He cited his ability to earn money immediately through new Name, Image and Likeness legislation that college athletes can now take advantage of.

Texas laws would have prevented him from profiting off his likeness while playing for his high school in Southlake, Texas.

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Ewers also said he believes this move will be best for his overall development as a player.

“This is not just a financial decision,” Ewers wrote in-part. “This is about what is best for my football career.”

Here’s the full statement:

Ewers is now effectively in the same recruiting class as fellow 5-star Ohio State QB Kyle McCord. The Buckeyes quarterback room also includes former blue-chip prospects Jack Miller and CJ Stroud.

Prior to re-classifying, Ewers was the No. 1 overall prospect in the class of 2022, per 247Sports Composite rankings. He’s now the top player in the class of 2021.

It seems like Ewers will redshirt this year, but he will be eligible to play this fall if the Buckeyes need him. He’s also expected to participate in fall camp for Ohio State, which begins on August 4.

Ohio State begins its 2021 campaign against Minnesota on Sept. 2.