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Arch Manning Sets the Record Straight on 2026 NFL Draft Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Jul 15, 2025 7:04 PM ET

The anticipation in Austin is at an all-time high heading into the 2025–26 college football season, and a major reason for the excitement surrounding the Texas Longhorns is quarterback Arch Manning.

The former five-star recruit and No. 1-ranked player in the Class of 2023 is entering his third season with the program and is now set to take over for Quinn Ewers, who was selected in the seventh round of the NFL draft by the Miami Dolphins.

With Manning already two years into his college career, one growing question is whether he’ll declare for the 2026 NFL draft, for which he’ll be eligible following this season.

On Tuesday at SEC Media Day, Manning set the record straight. When asked about his future, he made it clear that he’s focused on the present and taking things day by day—starting with simply getting through his interviews.

“I’m really just worried about getting through this interview and then getting through the run tomorrow,” Manning said. “I’m just focused on this year and getting better each day.”

QB1@ArchManning pic.twitter.com/jfQFV4kcDG
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) July 15, 2025

Right now, most early mock drafts project Manning as a potential No. 1 overall pick. If he has a dominant season—leading the Longhorns to the College Football Playoffs while maintaining his high draft stock—it would certainly be surprising to see him bypass that opportunity and return for a fourth college season.

However, Manning retains that eligibility and doesn’t appear rushed to make a decision. He could have easily declared for the draft after his freshman or sophomore year when he was backing up Ewers, but he didn’t. Instead, he committed to his role, continued to improve, and patiently waited for his chance.

That opportunity now arrives on Aug 30, when Texas travels to Columbus for a must-watch Week 1 matchup against the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes.

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

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