Former NFL QB Shuts Down Arch Manning Hype Train With Blunt Verdict

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 12:27 PM ET

The Arch Manning hype train has been gaining steam all offseason, but ESPN analyst Jordan Rodgers is slamming on the brakes.

Rodgers, the younger brother of four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers and a mainstay on the SEC Network, didn’t hold back when asked if Manning deserved to be called the top quarterback in the SEC heading into 2025.

"That is fiction," Rodgers said bluntly while appearing on ESPN's "Get Up" in response to the question from Peter Schrager. "And y'all have been drinking Paul Finebaum's Kool-Aid for way too long."

Rodgers was taking direct aim at recent takes — including one from Paul Finebaum — that have anointed Manning as potentially the best quarterback in the conference this season. After a redshirt year in 2023, followed by flashes of brilliance in limited action last fall, Manning has become one of the most talked-about players in college football.

But Rodgers isn’t buying into the buzz. Not even close.

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"I have [Manning] as the fifth best. Let me repeat that. The fifth best quarterback in the SEC," Rodgers continued. "The hype train is out of control and what are we basing this on?"

It’s a fair question. Manning’s most notable performances last season came against UTSA, Louisiana-Monroe and Mississippi State — teams that ranked 102nd, 93rd and 118th in scoring defense, respectively.

"Look, I love Arch," Rodgers clarified. "I think he has a very high floor. But I don't think he's an elite talent when it comes to his arm, his arm ability, his ability to manipulate the pocket, to make guys miss, to change his arm angle."

Rodgers did acknowledge Manning’s upside, but he made it clear the Texas quarterback still has plenty to prove before being crowned anything in the SEC.

"I think he's a really good quarterback, but the hype train's out of control."

As Manning enters his first season as Texas’ full-time starter, he’ll have every opportunity to prove his doubters wrong. But if he stumbles, don’t be surprised if Rodgers is the first one saying, “I told you so.”

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

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