Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning is staying true to his mission: bringing Texas football back to national prominence.
As the 2025 season approaches, Manning opened up about his commitment to the Longhorns, his family legacy, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Despite calls to transfer, Manning remains steady in his belief that Texas is the right place for him to make history.
Despite Multiple Offers, Arch Manning Stayed True to His Texas Commitment
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Marty Smith, Arch Manning made it clear why he chose Texas. The grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch had no shortage of options. But for him, the decision was about more than just football.
“I liked Coach Sark a lot from the jump, and then, most importantly, I wanted to go somewhere that hadn’t been as good the past few years but was on the rise,” Manning explained. “I wanted to bring Texas back.”
"I kinda wanted to bring Texas back."
Arch Manning sat down with @MartySmithESPN to talk @TexasFootball, which family member his game is most like and his college experience so far 🤘 pic.twitter.com/KxuDhb7uPi
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) January 30, 2025
Manning’s patience has been tested. After redshirting in 2023, he got his chance in 2024 when Quinn Ewers suffered an abdominal injury. Manning started two games, throwing for 939 yards and scoring 13 total touchdowns.
Manning had to warm the benches when Ewers had returned, but instead of considering a transfer like many young quarterbacks might, he doubled down on his commitment.
“The hardest part is that you get a little taste of what it’s like, and then you love it, and then you go back to not playing,” Manning admitted.
The Influence of Family Played Big Role in Arch Manning’s Motivation
Manning’s football journey has been shaped by the experiences of his family, especially his father, Cooper Manning. A promising wide receiver, Cooper had to retire from football at 18 due to spinal stenosis, a condition that cut his career short before it even began.
“He had to stop playing after a surgery went wrong,” Arch shared. “It was tough. I think he was going to be a good player. But it just reminds me to not take it for granted and enjoy the little moments.”
This perspective has shaped how Manning approaches the game. When he stepped in for Ewers, he played with the mindset that nothing is guaranteed. In his two starts, he led Texas to key wins, earning SEC Co-Freshman of the Week honors after a standout performance against UTSA.
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Now, with Ewers off to the NFL, it’s officially Manning’s team. He’s spent his time studying his uncles’ playing styles — taking Peyton’s preparation and accuracy, and Eli’s composure. But when asked who he most resembles, he didn’t hesitate.
“I think my game is most like my grandfather [Archie Manning]. He could run around a little bit and make plays, use a little more of his athleticism,” Arch revealed.
With the 2025 season around the corner, Manning knows the weight of expectations. But for him, it’s about more than just the next game. It’s about fulfilling his promise to make Texas a powerhouse again, and he’s ready to take on the challenge.
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