Arch Madness: Haslam Dismisses Manning Speculation — What This Means for the Team

BEREA, Ohio — Browns co-owner Jimmy Haslam recently clarified rumors that the team is interested in drafting Texas quarterback Arch Manning in 2026. Haslam, a Tennessee alum, has close ties to the Manning family, including Peyton Manning, Arch’s uncle. When asked about the speculation, he downplayed the idea.

“Knowing the Manning family, I think Arch will stay in college for at least two more years. So, I don’t think it’s worth discussing,” Haslam said.

Arch Manning, who just became a full-time starter, also avoided questions about his potential jump to the NFL during recent SEC media days.

In a separate topic, Haslam denied claims that he pushed for the Browns to pick quarterback Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round of the 2025 draft. “That was a decision made by Andrew Berry, our general manager,” he stated. However, cameras captured Haslam sitting behind Berry and coach Kevin Stefanski during the announcement of Sanders’ selection.

The Browns made headlines when they traded up to select Sanders with the 144th pick, marking the second quarterback they drafted that year, following Dillon Gabriel, who was picked at 94.

“Our process works,” Haslam noted. “If you had told me on Friday that we would draft Shedeur, I wouldn’t have believed it. But we had discussions throughout the day, and in the end, that was Andrew’s decision.”

In the world of college football, attention often turns to top prospects like Arch Manning. According to recent analysis from ESPN, Manning is one of the most-watched players this season. His performance could make a significant impact on future draft predictions. Plus, considering his family legacy, many fans believe he will choose to build a strong college career before entering the NFL.

With all this in mind, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics unfold in 2026 and beyond. The decisions made now could shape the future of the Browns and their pursuit of talent in both college and the NFL.

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