A recent social media post from a college football analyst about Arch Manning declaring for the NFL Draft in 2026 has caught the eye of many. The analyst said he bets Manning stays right in Austin, Texas, with head coach Steve Sarkisian after the 2025 season wraps up.
Arch Manning Hype Train Is in Full Swing Ahead of 2025 Season
Bleacher Report’s Ray Garvin posted on X:
“Why do so many people assume Arch Manning will declare for the #NFLDraft in 2026??
I’d bet on him staying right where he’s at in Austin with Sark following this upcoming season.”
Why do so many people assume Arch Manning will declare for the #NFLDraft in 2026??
I’d bet on him staying right where he’s at in Austin with Sark following this upcoming season.
— Ray G (@RayGQue) March 12, 2025
Even though Manning is the odds-on favorite to win the Heisman Trophy and Garvin’s post is accurate, there are a number of factors that should be considered if Manning will declare.
Why Manning Should Declare
With Quinn Ewers’ departure, Sarkisian has already declared Manning as the No. 1 quarterback.
The Longhorns also face the Ohio State Buckeyes to start the season, which is Manning’s perfect test.
Manning isn’t draft-eligible until 2026 because he is only two years out of high school, and the NFL does not permit players who have been out for less than three years to enter the draft.
Manning can do so after this season, and as the U.S. Sun reported, “numerous NFL scouts believe that he ‘will have to’ enter the 2026 NFL Draft.” This would happen with a Heisman win.
Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are the top two quarterbacks in the 2025 class, but as the U.S. Sun article wrote, “Sanders has below-average arm strength, and Ward has questionable accuracy.”
The 2026 class also includes Drew Allar from Penn State and Garrett Nussmeier from LSU, so even if the weaker 2025 class doesn’t deliver, the 2026 class might.
Why Manning Shouldn’t Declare
Staying in college as a junior would allow Manning to gain much-needed experience, though, as he has only made 12 total game appearances.
He currently ranks 19th overall and is the No. 3 quarterback for the 2026 draft. Success in 2026 should provide further clarity on what he will do.
KEEP READING: Top 10 NIL Valuations in College Football
Both his and the Longhorns’ success are a big factor, as is his family’s history. Manning also has a chance to maximize the NIL deal that he signed recently with Red Bull.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
