Arch Manning, the Texas Longhorns’ quarterback, is not rushing to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, despite the growing speculation about his professional future. Multiple sources close to Manning indicate that he has “no current plans” to declare early, with one source even stating they would be “stunned” if he did so without a Heisman-level breakout this season. This cautious approach reflects Manning’s focus on his college career, where he is now poised to take over as the starting quarterback following Quinn Ewers’ departure to the NFL. The 20-year-old’s decision to stay put is a testament to his commitment to Texas, a program fresh off a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance and looking to contend under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Manning’s patience is notable, especially given the high expectations and the buzz surrounding his potential as a future No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick.
Manning’s talent is undeniable, with an NFL scout telling Marca that he possesses “pretty similar arm talent” to his uncles, Peyton and Eli Manning, but with a crucial difference: his athleticism. “Neither Eli nor Peyton had what he has when it comes to that,” the scout noted, suggesting Manning could be “a better prospect” than his predecessors. This praise, however, hasn’t swayed Manning from his current path. In a previous interview, he expressed his love for Austin, stating, “There’s nowhere else I want to be. I want to be at Texas. I got friends here. Love this place. So I want to be the quarterback of the University of Texas. Sometimes it’s worth the wait.” This sentiment aligns with the Longhorns’ plans, as they aim to leverage Manning’s skills to maintain their competitive edge in the coming seasons.
The 2025 season will be a critical juncture for Manning, as his performance could either solidify his decision to stay or prompt a reevaluation of his timeline. If he achieves a Heisman-level breakout, the temptation to enter the NFL Draft might become irresistible, but for now, the focus is on winning games in Austin. The Texas program, with its recent success and Manning’s potential, is set for an exciting chapter, and the quarterback’s decision to bide his time could pay dividends both on and off the field. The NCAA landscape is watching closely, and for Manning, it’s about proving his worth in college before making the leap to the pros. The 2025 season looms, and with it, a chance for Manning to shape his legacy, one game at a time.
