Arch Manning’s Journey with the Texas Longhorns and NFL Prospects

Arch Manning is committed to helping his No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns aim for the College Football Playoff and possibly the national championship game this season. Yet, many eyes are on his potential at the next level in his football career. As the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, he has carried immense expectations since high school as a top prospect.

Despite showing moments of excellence, ESPN ranks Manning at No. 5 among quarterbacks for the 2027 NFL Draft. An AFC assistant general manager mentioned that Manning has generated “blind faith” largely due to his family name, saying, “What’s giving so many people this blind faith that there’s just this monstrous ceiling with him? Maybe this current state is just who he really is as a prospect.”

Manning began the 2026 college season after a 2025 campaign that some labeled as disappointing. He threw for 3,163 yards, achieving 26 touchdowns and seven interceptions over 13 games. Currently, for his 4-0 Longhorns, Manning has passed for 862 yards, including seven touchdowns and three interceptions, featuring a 21-point comeback against Ohio State.

The expectations for Manning in college were immense, reflecting the legacy of the Manning quarterbacks before him. While he hasn’t consistently met those expectations, the football season allows ample time for development. NFL teams have begun their intense scouting process ahead of next year’s draft, scrutinizing every move Manning and his fellow prospects make.

An AFC scout told ESPN that teams might “fall in love” with Manning over time, but not necessarily immediately. “He’s always graded on a different scale because of the name,” the scout commented. “I don’t think he’s the best in the class, but his flashes in games are captivating and suggest future potential.”

Manning’s draft prospects could shift significantly with performances throughout the season, and events like the NFL Scouting Combine can influence team evaluations. Manning is part of a particularly strong draft class, including quarterbacks like Oklahoma State’s Drew Mestemaker, Miami’s Darian Mensah, Ole Miss’ Trinidad Chambliss, and Notre Dame’s CJ Carr, who rank higher in recent lists.

In the coming weeks, Manning has a chance to alter perceptions, taking on five ranked opponents after facing Oklahoma in the “Red River Rivalry.” His upcoming challenges include games against No. 16 Florida, No. 9 Ole Miss, No. 17 Mississippi State, No. 14 Missouri, and No. 10 LSU.