In anticipation of the 2025 season, Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning has been ranked among the top returning players in college football. Despite restricted playing time in his first two seasons, Manning’s potential has earned him a place among our recent rankings.
Which Texas Players Were Listed Among the Top 100 Returners?
CSN’s Top 100 Returning Players rankings included five Texas Longhorns, showcasing the depth and skill returning to Austin for the coming season.
55) S Michael Taaffe
Michael Taaffe, a solid safety, offers leadership and consistency to the defensive backfield. In 2024, the Longhorns made it to the College Football Playoff Semifinal before falling to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. This run was anchored by a solid defensive unit that is expected to return next year.
46) CB Malik Muhammad
Muhammad, an effective cornerback with strong covering ability, will play a significant part in the Texas secondary alongside Taaffe.
19) QB Arch Manning
Despite his minimal playing time, Manning’s ranking reflects his potential and the opinion that he will emerge as a great quarterback by 2025. In his first two seasons, the nephew of the NFL greats mainly backed up Quinn Ewers, who is now transitioning to the NFL.
15) LB Anthony Hill Jr.
Hill Jr. is a hard-hitting linebacker who plays an important role in the Longhorns’ defense.
4) EDGE Colin Simmons
Simmons, a superb pass rusher, is anticipated to be among college football’s most feared defensive players next season.
Is Manning the Future of Texas Football?
Arch Manning ranks No. 19 on CSN’s Top 100 Returning Players list, making him one of the most anticipated signal-callers in the sport.
Despite backing up Ewers, Manning’s brilliance, football intelligence, and playmaking ability have made him an obligatory candidate.
Manning’s ranking is based on his enormous potential rather than his statistical performance thus far. Analysts believe Manning will be able to show off his superior arm strength, decision-making, and movement in head coach Steve Sarkisian’s offensive scheme.
While the Longhorns are prominently featured on the list, some may argue that Muhammad and Taaffe should have been ranked higher.
Texas fans have plenty to be thrilled about in 2025, with several studs returning to fuel an expected championship run.
KEEP READING: Steve Sarkisian Heaps Praise on Arch Manning’s Work Ethic
With Manning in the spotlight and defensive standouts Simmons and Hill leading the way, the Longhorns are on track to be a force to be reckoned with next season.
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