Arch Manning announces personal news.
Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, the No. 1 overall recruit in 2023, has just two career college starts to his name. However, he has already been tabbed by some as a lock to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
With pressure and expectations growing around the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning as he looks to lead the No. 1 Texas Longhorns to the program's first title since the 2005 season, his grandfather and former New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning attempted to take some of the pressure off of his grandson recently.
In an interview with Texas Monthly, the eldest Manning was asked about his grandson leaving Texas after one year as the full-time starter for the draft. He said, "Arch isn’t going to do that. He’ll be at Texas.”
While the Saints Ring of Honor selection admitted he hadn't talked to his grandson about the matter, it was a comment that made plenty of headlines.
On Tuesday, the Texas quarterback spoke to the media and was asked about his grandfather's comments and revealed that he doesn't yet have a plan for his future moves.
"Yeah I don't know where he got that from," Manning said. "He texted me and apologized about that. I'm really just taking it day by day right now."
Signs that Point to Arch Manning Staying at Texas
Although fans at both the college and NFL levels are ready to rush the youngest Manning off to the NFL, there are a couple of indicators that hint it may not be a reality. Both Peyton (Tennessee) and Eli (Ole Miss) stayed at their programs for all four years before they went on to be selected No. 1 overall in their draft classes.
There is also a well-known checklist pioneered by legendary coach Bill Parcells when it comes to drafting a quarterback that may prevent Manning from leaving after one year:
- Be a senior
- In the process of graduating or already possessing their degree
- Three-year starter
- Have at least 23 wins
- Start at least 30 games
- 2:1 touchdown to interception ratio
- 60% completion percentage
Manning could lead Texas to an undefeated title run this season and still not have 23 wins or 30 starts. Regardless, he and his family mostly keep his plans on the down low, so we likely won't know until the season's end.
Who Does Texas Play in Week 1?
Manning and the Longhorns open the year against the No. 3 Ohio State Buckeyes in a game that will air on Fox's "Big Noon Kickoff" on Aug. 30.
Related: Steve Sarkisian Reacts to Ohio State Naming Julian Sayin the Starting QB
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the College section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Category: Football
