$5.4 Million College Football Star Earns No. 1 Spot In SEC QB Rankings

"High expectations surrounded Manning’s first season as the starter in Austin," Lassan wrote. "However, Manning started the ‘25 campaign off on a slow note and had to shoulder much of the offensive focus with a shaky offensive line and struggling ground game. But Manning improved significantly over the second half of the season, including seven touchdown tosses over the team’s final three games. Over 13 starts, Manning threw for 3,161 yards and 26 scores and ran for 399 yards and 10 touchdowns."

The immediate ripple effect of Manning being named the SEC’s top quarterback entering 2026 is heightened expectations for the Longhorns. After a slow start to the 2025 season, Manning found his rhythm late, tossing seven touchdowns over the final three games. His dual-threat production and steady growth helped stabilize Texas’ offense down the stretch.

The SEC, however, is loaded at the position. Chambliss and Stockton also headline a deep returning group. That competition only magnifies Manning’s placement at the top of the rankings, signaling belief not just in his talent, but in his trajectory entering Year 2 as the full-time starter.

Looking ahead, Manning’s development will be tied directly to Texas’ championship aspirations. Beyond the on-field accolades, his growing national profile is reflected in his $5.4 million NIL evaluation, one of the highest marks in college football. If he plays to that valuation and meets preseason expectations, Manning won’t just be the SEC’s top quarterback on paper; he’ll be positioned as a frontrunner in the national spotlight throughout the 2026 campaign.