Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning gets apology from grandfather
Texas Longhorns starting quarterback Arch Manning is letting everyone — even his grandfather — know that he’s keeping his options open.
Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning was interviewed by Texas Monthly and speculated that his grandson wouldn’t declare for the NFL until the 2027 draft, after playing two seasons for the Longhorns.
Many football observers have speculated that the younger Manning would follow in the footsteps of his Super Bowl-winning uncles Peyton and Eli, who spent four seasons at Tennessee and Ole Miss, respectively.
Arch Manning responded to his grandfather’s comments, making it clear that nothing has been decided.
“I don’t know where he got that from,” Manning said. “He texted me apologizing about that. I’m really just taking it day by day right now.’“
Manning is entering his first season as Texas’ starter after two seasons backing up Quinn Ewers. Manning completed 61 of 90 passes for 939 yards and nine touchdowns with two interceptions in limited action over 10 games last season, with most of his production coming in two-plus games in place of an injured Ewers.
The Longhorns are ranked No. 1 in the preseason Associated Press and coaches polls.
Manning will have plenty of time between now and the 2026 draft to declare for the NFL and would be in the running for top overall selection if he entered after just one season as Texas’ starter.
