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Texas QB Arch Manning Gets Huge 2026 NFL Draft Projection

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nathan Dougherty | Last updated May 22, 2025 6:28 PM ET

For the first two years of his college career, Texas quarterback Arch Manning has seen more hype than production.

Manning came to Texas as the No. 1-ranked recruit in the 2023 class, but mostly rode the bench behind Quinn Ewers through his first two college seasons. Manning did turn in some sharp performances filling in for the injured Ewers last season, but one insider believes the small sample size is enough to make a major projection on Manning.

The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner projected Manning as the top quarterback prospect in the 2026 NFL draft class -- as long as he can keep up the same level of production. Manning will take the reins after Ewers left for the NFL, getting a full season to make a name for himself.

"His size, arm talent and movement skills are all ideal," Baumgardner wrote. "More importantly, so is his process — Manning’s footwork is consistent, incredibly calm and almost always in rhythm with the pass concept he’s working."

Baumgardner added that Manning possesses all the skills of a star NFL quarterback, showing maturity beyond his 21 years.

"An excellent processor for his age, Manning shows poise against pressure and already has put several examples on film of being able to move beyond a second (or even third) read from the pocket," he wrote. "He’s athletic enough to be a factor as a scrambler and passer on the run, but his natural calm in the pocket will be what separates him long term."

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

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