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Aaron Murray Questions Arch Manning’s Hype as Texas’ New Star QB

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated May 21, 2025 12:30 PM ET

As the Texas Longhorns gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on Arch Manning, the highly touted quarterback stepping into the starting role.

However, former Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Aaron Murray has stirred debate with his skepticism about Manning’s readiness to live up to the hype.

In a recent Sirius XM interview, Murray questioned why Manning, projected by some as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, couldn’t outshine Quinn Ewers, a seventh-round draft pick who started over him last season.

“If you’re so good… why in the hell are you not playing above a seventh-round quarterback?” Murray asked, suggesting the Longhorns’ talented roster was “held back” by Ewers’ inconsistent play.

Manning, the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, has only 95 college pass attempts, with 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and a 67.8% completion rate in limited 2024 action.

His standout performance against Mississippi State—26-of-31 for 324 yards and two touchdowns, while rushing for 33 yards and a touchdown on six carries—showcased his dual-threat potential.

Yet, Murray argues that Manning’s limited game time raises doubts about his elite status, despite the Longhorns reaching the College Football Playoff semifinals last year.

With the Longhorns losing key receivers like Isaiah Bond and Matthew Golden, Manning faces pressure to elevate a retooled passing game.

Supporters, including ESPN’s Todd McShay, have praised his tools and coachability, seeing him as a future NFL star.

As Manning prepares for a high-stakes opener against defending champion Ohio State Buckeyes, 2025 will be his chance to silence doubters like Murray and prove he’s more than just a famous name.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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