Former NFL quarterback Archie Manning has predicted that his grandson, Texas starting quarterback Arch Manning, will not enter the 2026 NFL Draft. In an interview with Texas Monthly magazine, Archie stated that “Arch isn’t going to do that. He’ll be at Texas (in 2026)”.
This prediction comes as no surprise, given Arch’s recruitment and college career trajectory. Unlike many of his peers, who have transferred or declared for the draft after one year, Arch has chosen a different path. His father, Cooper Manning, expressed similar sentiments, cautioning that NFL teams often move too quickly on talented players who struggle early in their careers.
Arch, the son of Cooper and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, has started only two games this season but is still favored to win the Heisman Trophy. The Longhorns’ preseason hype has reached high levels, with speculation that NFL teams would “tank” for Arch’s services. However, Archie dismissed these expectations, saying “People are saying he’s a Heisman candidate… You’re not a Heisman Trophy candidate when you haven’t played but three games.”
The Manning family has handled Arch’s career with care, limiting contact with recruiters and allowing him to develop at his own pace. This approach has helped Arch remain focused on his college football career, earning his keep through name, image, and likeness deals.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, observers will closely monitor Arch’s performance and draft prospects. While some predictions place him as the potential No. 1 selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, Archie’s confidence in Arch’s decision to stay at Texas remains unwavering.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6540353/2025/08/07/arch-manning-archie-nfl-draft-texas