The 2025 NFL Draft ended about a week ago in Green Bay, and now analysts and experts have quickly turned their attention to the 2026 NFL Draft, scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from April 23–25. The Texas Longhorns had the third-highest number of players selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, and analysts have already started releasing mock drafts ahead of next year.
NFL analyst Jordan Reid has released his 2026 NFL Mock Draft. Reid’s prediction on how the 2026 NFL draft would pan out featured many players, but Arch Manning was absent. Reid’s first pick was Clemson Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik by the Cleveland Browns. Meanwhile, the first Texas player selected was linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. by the Carolina Panthers at No. 11.
Arch Manning’s Draft Future in Question? Here’s Why It Matters
Manning’s draft future has been called into question following what many believe to be an underwhelming season with the Longhorns. After spending the last two years behind Quinn Ewers, the 21-year-old has only started two games for the Longhorns. However, Manning had been productive despite his limited game time.
This has led to much speculation about his draft future and whether the 21-year-old would decide to enter the draft as an underclassman. ESPN NFL analyst Jordan Reid believes that Manning hasn’t been tested against “quality opponents” enough. However, he admits it is still very early for the prospects and the franchises in their respective slots. Reid expects many things to change between now and the 2026 NFL Draft next April.
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Manning Could Still Go To NFL
Manning primarily played second fiddle to Ewers’ last campaign but was forced into action after Ewers aggravated a previous injury. Manning replaced him and finished the game with 223 passing yards, 53 rushing yards, and five total touchdowns.
The 21-year-old then started the next two games against UL Monroe and the Mississippi State Bulldogs, leading Texas to wins in both, a total of 10 games last season, with only two of them starts. However, the 21-year-old still managed to post impressive numbers, ending the 2024 campaign with 939 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions.
KEEP READING: CFB Analyst Joel Klatt Doubts Arch Manning Declares for the 2026 NFL Draft
While Manning’s future remains in question, he could still go to the NFL if he wins the season. A college football player must have three years of college football under their belt before they can officially declare for the next level.
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