Texas quarterback Arch Manning is not likely to enter the 2026 NFL draft as many people predicted before this season. His performance this year has been underwhelming, and as a result, he needs more time to develop his game in college. Before the season, there was no question that if he stayed in college, he would remain at Texas, but that is no longer clear.
One of the main reasons Manning came to Texas and served as a backup for two years was because he liked head coach Steve Sarkisian. However, now there are reports that Sarkisian is open to taking a head coaching job in the NFL.
I’m told that representatives for Texas coach Steve Sarkisian have let NFL decision makers know that he would be interested in potential head coaching openings, including the Titans’. pic.twitter.com/WhBmN28ela
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) October 25, 2025
If Sarkisian leaves the Longhorns, Manning might not want to stay on the Longhorns anymore and could enter the transfer portal. Here are five possible landing spots for Manning if that scenario unfolds.
Top 5 Potential Landing Spots for Arch Manning if He Enters the Transfer Portal
LSU
The LSU Tigers will be without QB Garrett Nussmeier next season as he is set to enter the 2026 NFL draft. If the Tigers choose to go the transfer route, Manning could be a good fit. He would be joining a team with an experienced head coach in Brian Kelly, which is something Manning liked about Sarkisian. Manning could also like LSU as a choice because it is a team that will still be competitive in the SEC.
Clemson
The Clemson Tigers were expected to be a national championship contender this year, but fell flat. Part of the issue has been the play of Cade Klubnik, who has regressed since last season. Regardless, Klubnik will enter the 2026 NFL draft, and HC Dabo Swinney will need a replacement. The Tigers have a strong program and could be a strong fit for Arch Manning.
Miami
Head coach Mario Cristobal has brought in transfer QBs in back-to-back seasons in Cam Ward and Carson Beck and has had success both times. With Beck entering the 2026 NFL draft, Cristobal will need to do it again. If Manning feels like he will need help to get his career back on track, playing under Cristobal at Miami could be a smart move.
Florida State
Florida State is a prestigious program that has struggled the past few seasons despite high preseason expectations. Its two most recent starters, DJ Uiagalelei and Tommy Castellanos, have failed to live up to expectations. As a result, the team could be looking to make a flashier move in the offseason, like bringing in Arch Manning. While the Seminoles are not an under-the-radar team, Manning would have lower expectations there, which could be an incentive for him.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma has been one of the surprise teams of the season, having tremendous success after bringing in QB John Mateer. However, the team will need to find another QB next season as Mateer is expected to enter the 2026 NFL draft. Arch Manning could look at Mateer’s success and think that the Sooners could be a good fit for him.
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