Speculation is already swirling around Texas quarterback Arch Manning potentially entering the 2026 NFL Draft, with many early mock drafts projecting him as a first-round pick. However, this would require Manning to declare after just one year as a starter, which his grandfather, Archie Manning, strongly advises against.
In a recent interview, Archie made it clear that Arch will remain at Texas beyond this season, pushing back on any “tank for Arch” narratives from NFL teams. This stance was more decisive than his previous comment in late 2024, when he only hoped his grandson would stay longer.
NFL Interest Grows, But Manning Family Roots Suggest Patience Over Premature Draft Decisions
Despite the excitement, some NFL insiders are tempering expectations. Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam, while acknowledging his ties to the Manning family, dismissed rumors of his team’s interest in Arch for next year’s draft.
Haslam speculated that Arch would likely remain at Texas for at least two years, citing the family’s values and long-term thinking. He also recalled his attempts to bring Peyton Manning into a front-office role, reinforcing the family’s ongoing connection to the NFL landscape.
Arch Manning (NFL)The buzz around Arch Manning inevitably draws attention to the New Orleans Saints, due to his family’s deep-rooted connection to the city. Archie Manning was the Saints’ quarterback in the 1970s and remains a beloved figure in the franchise’s history.
Arch and his uncles, Peyton and Eli, all attended Isidore Newman School in New Orleans. NFL scouts and analysts have long been tracking Arch’s career, with comparisons to elite quarterbacks like Joe Burrow due to his arm talent and poise.
Heisman Hype, Leadership Role: Arch Manning Poised to Prove Himself at Texas
Despite limited playing time, just two starts and 95 pass attempts, Arch Manning enters the 2025 season as a Heisman favorite. The hype hasn’t fazed him; at SEC Media Days, he openly questioned the basis for the high praise, noting how little he has played.
Still, Manning is aware that expectations are massive and insists that he must prove himself on the field. His humility and grounded mindset suggest he’s not buying into the buzz; he’s focused on earning it.
Now stepping into the starting role, Manning has embraced a leadership position within the Texas program. He credited the time spent learning behind Quinn Ewers as crucial to his development. With a rebuilt offensive line, elite receivers like Ryan Wingo, and a strong defense, Texas is positioned as a legitimate national title contender.
Manning is ready to take command, aiming to lead the Longhorns to an SEC championship and potentially a national title, solidifying his future not just as a draft prospect but as a college football star.
