Entering the 2025 college football season, Arch Manning, the quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, has emerged as one of the most discussed and observed players in the nation. With an impressive lineage as the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch has garnered substantial attention from fans and analysts alike. His potential is highlighted by the belief that he could be a future No. 1 overall draft pick. However, it is important to note that despite the immense hype surrounding him, Manning is still untested as a full-time starter, having primarily served as a backup to Quinn Ewers during the previous season.
During the 2024 season, Arch Manning demonstrated his capabilities, completing 67.8% of his passes, accumulating 939 yards, and throwing nine touchdowns against just two interceptions. In addition to his aerial performance, he showcased his dual-threat ability by rushing for 108 yards and four touchdowns. This modest sample of his collegiate performance has left many eager to see how he will develop as he steps into a more prominent role. As the Longhorns prepare for the upcoming season, expectations continue to build around Manning’s potential impact on the team.
Looking ahead, the 2025 season serves as a pivotal year for Manning. There is discussion regarding his prospects for entering the 2026 NFL Draft after the upcoming season. Should he excel, there is a possibility that he could declare for the draft—though opinions vary on whether he will elect to do so. Speculation is rampant about whether a standout season might steer him towards becoming the No. 1 overall pick. In contrast, CBS Sports has predicted that Manning may not be among the top three selections, forecasting him instead as the fourth overall pick, designated for the New York Jets.
The prospect of Manning joining the Jets adds an intriguing layer to this discussion. Following a free-agent signing of quarterback Justin Fields to a two-year contract, the Jets find themselves in a unique situation. If Manning were to land with the Jets, he might either take a year to learn the ropes or challenge Fields for the starting position immediately, providing an enthralling storyline for fans. The dynamics of Manning potentially replacing Fields could enhance the rivalry and excitement surrounding the Jets’ quarterback competition.
However, it is crucial to emphasize that all of these projections are speculative. As of now, no one can definitively predict how the 2025 college football season will unfold for Manning or whether he will ultimately choose to enter the draft. The uncertainties around his performance and the evolving landscape of collegiate and professional football add to the intrigue of his situation.
As Manning’s journey progresses, it will undoubtedly remain a central topic of conversation for fans and analysts alike. His ability to navigate the challenges of a starting quarterback in a high-pressure environment while living up to the family legacy will be closely scrutinized. Time will tell whether he can deliver on the promise that has captured the attention of football enthusiasts across the nation.
