Top NFL Scouts Deliver SHOCKING Reality Check to Former No. 1 College Football Star – Will He Make the Cut?

As we inch closer to the opening weekend of the 2026 college football season, excitement is building among fans, analysts, and recruits alike. Just under seven months remain, yet the spotlight is already shining brightly on the Texas Longhorns and their star quarterback, Arch Manning.

Coming off a promising yet tumultuous 2025 season, Manning is once again at the center of attention. The 6-foot-4, 219-pound quarterback was the No. 1 overall prospect in the class of 2023 when he committed to Coach Steve Sarkisian and Texas. However, his debut season saw him play sparingly, appearing in just two games as he was overshadowed by teammates Quinn Ewers and Maalik Murphy. With Murphy's transfer to Duke during the offseason, Manning found himself moving up the depth chart.

His opportunity came sooner than expected when Ewers suffered an injury during a victory against UTSA, propelling Manning into the starting role for upcoming games against ULM and Mississippi State in 2024. Although Ewers returned to start every game from October onward, Manning's versatility was utilized, especially in short-yardage situations. Over the course of that season, he completed 61 of 90 passes for 939 yards, tossing nine touchdowns against two interceptions, while also rushing for 108 yards and scoring four additional touchdowns.

Entering the 2025 season, both Manning and the Longhorns were heralded as favorites to claim both the SEC and national championships. However, early losses to reigning national champion Ohio State (14-7) and a struggling Florida team (29-21) sent the hype train off the rails. Yet, Texas managed to recover, showing resilience in the latter half of the season, ultimately finishing with a strong 10-3 overall record. Manning ended the campaign with impressive stats, throwing for 3,163 yards, 26 touchdowns, and six interceptions, alongside 399 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns.

Now, as Manning opts to remain with the Longhorns for the 2026 season instead of entering the NFL draft, he positions himself as a top candidate for the 2027 draft. NFL talent evaluators have noted the importance of this decision, asserting that his continued development at Texas could significantly enhance his prospects at the next level. A report from Orangebloods.com even highlighted critiques from an NFL scout regarding Manning's game. The scout pointed out areas like Manning's processing skills and mechanics that require further refinement, emphasizing that his return to Texas was a sound choice as he was not as polished as fellow prospect Fernando Mendoza.

In response to Manning's needs and the overall performance of the team, the Longhorns have made strategic moves in the NCAA transfer portal. The team has revamped its rushing attack by bringing in two experienced ball carriers: Hollywood Smothers from NC State and Raleek Brown from Arizona State. Furthermore, to strengthen Manning's receiving corps, Texas has also secured Cam Coleman, a highly sought-after prospect from Auburn, while parting ways with two wide receivers.

As the Longhorns prepare for what promises to be another competitive season, the anticipation surrounding Arch Manning grows. His development, alongside Texas' strategic roster enhancements, could not only shape the fortunes of the Longhorns in the 2026 season but also redefine Manning's trajectory as he eyes a future in the NFL.