Arch Manning may be on track to become a household name in college football, but don’t expect him to bolt for the NFL just yet. According to multiple sources close to the Texas quarterback, Manning has “no current plans” to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, despite mounting buzz about his professional future.
One source familiar with the situation even said they’d be “stunned” if Manning declared early, barring a Heisman-level breakout this coming season. That’s a big “if,” and Manning seems in no rush to fast-track his path to Sundays.
Generational Talent With Time On His Side
The Texas Longhorns appear to be in good hands with Manning now poised to take over as the starting quarterback. With Quinn Ewers off to the NFL, the attention has officially landed on the 20-year-old, and expectations couldn’t be higher. But while the hype machine is working overtime, those around Manning are urging patience.
Arch Manning reportedly has “no current plans” of entering the 2026 NFL Draft.
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) June 7, 2025
One source close to the situation would reportedly be “stunned” if Manning chose to come out in 2026 instead of 2027.
Saying it would take a “Heisman-Type Season” for Manning to really even consider… pic.twitter.com/mhCohyfY8X
“He has pretty similar arm talent, but the factor that separates him is his athleticism,” one NFL scout told Marca. “Neither Eli nor Peyton had what he has when it comes to that.” That same scout added that Manning could very well be a future No. 1 overall pick and “a better prospect” than both of his uncles.
Even with that kind of praise, Manning doesn’t seem to be thinking that far ahead. In an earlier interview, he made it clear that his heart is in Austin for now. “There’s nowhere else I want to be,” he said. “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.”
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Texas, fresh off a College Football Playoff semifinal appearance, is reloading under head coach Steve Sarkisian. With Manning at the helm, they’re not just looking to stay relevant, they’re aiming to contend. Whether it’s one year or more, his time in burnt orange promises to be eventful.
Of course, things could change. If Manning lights it up and becomes the clear-cut top prospect, the NFL will come calling. But right now, everything points to a quarterback who’s focused on winning games in Austin, not preparing for a leap to the league.
Also Read: Two NFL Teams Lead The Race To Draft Arch Manning First Overall In 2026
