NFL dreams on pause? Arch Manning's surprising 2026 Draft decision could shake up NFL team strategies and college football rankings
Arch Manning has the name, the pedigree, and now, the opportunity. As he prepares to take over the reins as Texas Longhorns' starting quarterback following Quinn Ewers' departure to the NFL, the spotlight has never been brighter.
Yet, for all the anticipation surrounding his potential, don't expect a quick leap to the pros. According to those close to the situation, Manning currently has 'no plans' to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, signaling a maturity beyond his years.
Arch Manning reportedly wants more college time, sparking huge reactions over 2026 NFL Draft snub
For fans and NFL scouts alike, that might come as a surprise. A source familiar with Manning's decision-making even stated they'd be 'stunned' if he declared early—unless he somehow pulls off a Heisman-level campaign this season.
That possibility isn't off the table, but Manning doesn't seem to be chasing awards or headlines. His heart remains firmly planted in Austin.
'There's nowhere else I want to be,' Manning shared in an earlier interview. '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.' Those words don't just speak of loyalty; they reflect a player aware of both the expectations and the weight of the Manning legacy.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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And if early assessments are to be trusted, he's more than capable of carving his own path. One NFL scout remarked, 'He has pretty similar arm talent, but the factor that separates him is his athleticism. Neither Eli nor Peyton had what he has when it comes to that.' The same scout even noted that Arch could be 'a better prospect' than both of his legendary uncles—a bold claim, but one grounded in what he's shown during practices and scrimmages.
Still, national pundits like CBS Sports' Ryan Wilson remain grounded in their analysis. While Wilson acknowledges Manning's elite potential—'And, yes, Arch Manning is QB1 in the 2026 class'—he also cautions against overhyping. Instead, he believes Manning will stay in Austin through at least 2026, writing, 'History suggests he may not be in a rush to leave college for the NFL.'
That timeline is music to the ears of Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian.
With Manning under center for potentially two or more seasons, the Longhorns not only enjoy stability but also boast one of the nation's most promising quarterback situations. Coming off a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance, Texas is poised to contend, and Manning's development could be the final piece of the championship puzzle.
Meanwhile, analysts are already projecting the hypothetical aftermath.
If Manning does surprise and declare for the 2026 Draft, he's the undisputed No. 1 quarterback. But should he stay, LSU's Garrett Nussmeier is expected to take the top QB spot in that class, according to Wilson's current mock.
For now, though, all signs point to a patient ascent. Arch Manning isn't just trying to live up to his last name—he's carving out his own journey, on his own terms. And that journey, at least for the foreseeable future, is happening in burnt orange.
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