In the world of college football, few names carry as much weight as Arch Manning. Born into one of the most iconic football families in history, Arch’s every move has been scrutinized since he was a child. His granddad, Archie Manning, was a stalwart quarterback for the New Orleans Saints. His uncles, Peyton and Eli, are two of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, with Peyton’s five MVP awards and two Super Bowl victories, and Eli’s two Super Bowl rings as well. Given the pedigree, expectations for Arch have been sky-high since his high school days, and as he enters his sophomore year at the University of Texas, it’s clear that he’s not just living up to those expectations—he’s beginning to surpass them.
With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, teams across the league are already looking ahead to the next great quarterback prospect—none other than Arch Manning. While the 2024 draft class has some talented signal-callers like Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, it is Arch Manning’s future that has been the subject of increasing attention in NFL circles. Even though Manning has yet to play a full season as Texas’ starting quarterback, NFL teams are already salivating at the potential he brings to the table. The hype is real, and it’s undeniable that Arch Manning is already on the radar of NFL scouts and front offices.
In this article, we’ll dive into the factors driving this early attention, explore why NFL teams are already thinking about Arch Manning, and analyze what he must do to capitalize on this buzz and cement his place as the future face of the NFL.
The Manning Legacy and the Built-in Hype
Arch Manning’s rise to prominence was never going to be under the radar. The Manning family name carries a level of prestige and recognition that few other families in sports can match. From his grandfather, Archie, a three-time Pro Bowler, to Peyton and Eli, both of whom are two-time Super Bowl champions, the Manning name is synonymous with elite quarterback play. As such, the weight of expectations surrounding Arch has been enormous from day one.
But Arch Manning is not just a product of his family’s success—he is a highly skilled and talented quarterback in his own right. However, his last name alone has opened doors in terms of media attention, recruiting, and visibility. While it may seem like a burden to many, Arch has embraced the legacy and used it to fuel his development rather than feeling constrained by it. His family’s success has served as both a blueprint and a motivating factor, driving him to not only meet but exceed the standard set before him.
As soon as Arch committed to the University of Texas in 2023, the buzz around him became undeniable. Fans and analysts alike began to speculate about his potential as a future top NFL pick, and this attention was only amplified by the fact that Texas, with its rich history and passionate fan base, was ready to thrust him into the national spotlight.
Arch Manning’s Development at Texas
It’s important to note that while Arch Manning’s potential is off the charts, his college career at Texas is still unfolding. Manning’s freshman year was spent learning behind incumbent starter Quinn Ewers, which allowed him to develop his skills and understand the nuances of college football. While some freshmen might have been frustrated by not getting an immediate starting role, Manning’s patience and maturity set him apart.
During his redshirt season, Manning gained invaluable experience in practice and learned from one of the best coaching staffs in the country. Steve Sarkisian, the head coach at Texas, is known for his offensive acumen and his ability to develop quarterbacks. Sarkisian helped mold quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts at Alabama, and his guidance has been crucial in Manning’s development. Even though Manning wasn’t a full-time starter yet, he was still preparing for the moment when he would get the keys to the offense.
When Manning finally took over as the starting quarterback in 2025, it wasn’t a surprise to anyone who had been following his progression. Manning’s combination of natural talent, football IQ, and leadership made him an immediate contender for the role, and he wasted no time making an impact on the field. His poise under pressure, ability to make all the necessary throws, and sharp decision-making were evident early on in the season.
While it’s still early in Manning’s career at Texas, the signs are promising. He’s shown the ability to lead his team with confidence, and his development under Sarkisian’s tutelage has already drawn comparisons to some of the top quarterbacks in college football. Scouts are taking note, and while the 2024 draft class may still dominate the conversation, Manning’s name is already making its way into conversations about the 2026 NFL Draft.
Why NFL Teams Are Already Thinking About Arch Manning
The 2025 NFL Draft may still be the primary focus for many teams, but that hasn’t stopped NFL front offices from turning their gaze to the future and thinking about Arch Manning. While it may seem premature to talk about a player who has yet to play a full season of college football as a potential top NFL pick, there are several key reasons why teams are already watching Arch closely.
1. His Elite Physical Tools
Arch Manning is not just a highly intelligent quarterback—he’s also an athlete with elite physical tools. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing around 215 pounds, Manning has the ideal frame for an NFL quarterback. His size, combined with his arm strength and accuracy, make him a tantalizing prospect. Manning’s arm is one of his most standout traits; he’s able to make every throw in the book, from deep bombs down the field to quick slants and tight-window throws. His ball placement is also impeccable, often putting the ball in the exact spot where only his receiver can make a play on it.
In addition to his arm, Manning is also an effective athlete. While he’s not known for being a dual-threat quarterback, Manning has more than enough mobility to evade pressure and make plays outside the pocket. His footwork is sharp, and his ability to extend plays is something that will be highly valued by NFL teams that are increasingly looking for quarterbacks who can perform well both in and out of the pocket.
2. Maturity and Football IQ
One of the most impressive aspects of Arch Manning’s game is his maturity. Despite the enormous pressure of following in the footsteps of two NFL legends, Manning has maintained a calm and composed demeanor. He plays with confidence but without arrogance, which is a rare trait for a young quarterback. His leadership on and off the field has drawn praise from coaches, teammates, and analysts alike.
Manning’s football IQ is another key reason why NFL teams are already looking at him as a potential future star. He has an innate understanding of the game, able to quickly diagnose defenses, read coverages, and make quick decisions. His ability to process information at a high level—especially for a sophomore—is a testament to his football intelligence. This skill is something that separates the good quarterbacks from the great ones, and Manning’s ability to read the field and make adjustments will only improve as he gains more experience.
3. The Manning Legacy and NFL Connections
While it may seem like Arch Manning’s name might put undue pressure on him, it’s also given him valuable connections and opportunities. His family’s ties to the NFL are well-documented, and Arch has had the opportunity to learn from some of the best minds in the game. Peyton and Eli, in particular, have been sources of guidance for Arch, offering him advice not just on how to succeed on the field, but on how to handle the unique challenges of being a Manning.
NFL scouts have taken note of Arch’s pedigree, not just because of the name on the back of his jersey, but because of the high level of mentorship and coaching he’s received. This legacy also means that Arch has already been exposed to the highest levels of football, making him more prepared for the rigors of the NFL than most quarterbacks his age.
4. The Need for a Franchise Quarterback
Across the NFL, teams are constantly on the lookout for a franchise quarterback—the type of player who can lead the team for the next decade and bring them to Super Bowl contention. As the 2025 NFL season progresses, many teams are beginning to look ahead to the 2026 draft and beyond. Quarterback-needy teams are already eyeing Manning as a potential game-changer for their franchise. With so many teams in need of a top-tier quarterback, Arch’s skills and pedigree make him a future top pick.
What Arch Manning Needs to Do
While Arch Manning has already shown remarkable potential, there is still work to be done before he can enter the NFL. First and foremost, he must continue to refine his game at Texas. Developing more consistency in his decision-making, improving his deep ball accuracy, and further honing his ability to lead under pressure will be crucial as he prepares for the next level. Additionally, while his physical tools are exceptional, continuing to grow in terms of his leadership, work ethic, and adaptability will help him transition smoothly to the NFL.
Arch Manning must also stay healthy, avoid the pitfalls that often derail young quarterbacks, and maintain his focus as he navigates the hype that surrounds him. The road to the NFL is long, and while the hype is exciting, Manning’s success will ultimately depend on his ability to focus on the process and improve each day.