Arch Manning turned down the 2026 NFL Draft in favor of returning to Texas for his fourth year under Steve Sarkisian. With Fernando Mendoza, Ty Simpson, Carson Beck, and more off the draft board, Manning is considered the consensus No. 1 overall Pick for the 2027 NFL Draft.
However, insider Josh Pate has made a major claim on Manning’s draft stance, pointing to Eli Manning’s infamous decision to reject joining the San Diego Chargers despite being selected as the first pick of the 2004 NFL Draft. He said:
“Which has been a variable in the equation for Mannings in the past is: what does the order of the draft look like? ‘Cause he does not have to come out financially.
“He does not need to come out. And if the New York Jets or some woeful organization is sitting there with the overwhelming desire to draft him and he doesn’t want to go there, he’s the kind of guy who would just stay in school.”
He continued:
“You know, there are worse places to be for another year than financially set in Austin, Texas, playing for the Longhorns. There are worse places to be.”
While the younger Manning announced his desire to develop his game as the driving reason behind returning to Texas, there is a possibility of Arch Manning using the fourth and final year of his eligibility if the situation demands it, according to Josh Pate.
Arch Manning’s 2027 NFL Draft Outlook Explored
Manning arrived at Texas as a backup for Quinn Ewers, redshirting his first season. After a few scattered starts in Ewers’ absence in his second season, Manning was finally named the starter at the start of the 2025 cycle.
While the 22-year-old had a rough start to the season against the No. 1-ranked Ohio State, Manning finished the year with 3,163 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, leading his team to a 10-3 record.
Standing at 6-foot-3, 225 lbs, Manning boasts a big frame, an exceptional arm, and pinpoint accuracy as witnessed in the 2025 season. Manning also showed his willingness to use his legs when needed, rushing for 399 yards and 10 rushing touchdowns last season.
When it comes to competition, Oregon QB Dante Moore is expected to give Manning a run for his money as one of the top QB’s in the draft. However, betting odds suggest it’s Manning’s title to lose.
With the Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets being the early favorites for the No. 1 Overall pick, Manning’s decision will remain the talk of the town throughout the 2026 College Football season.
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