It’s common to think the first pick in the NFL Draft will be a quarterback. But betting on Arch Manning for that spot in 2026 might not be the best idea right now.
This season, Arch is stepping into the role of starting quarterback at Texas. However, there’s still limited evidence about his potential as a pro. He comes from a famous football family—his grandfather Archie and uncles Peyton and Eli were all first overall picks in the NFL. This lineage has many fans wondering if Arch will follow suit after just one year at Texas.
Archie Manning recently shared his thoughts on these expectations. He hasn’t discussed future plans with Arch, but he noted that both Peyton and Eli chose to finish their college careers before entering the NFL. He seems to think Arch will likely do the same. “Arch isn’t going to do that,” he said confidently.
If Arch performs well this season, his draft prospects will undoubtedly become a hot topic again. However, it doesn’t appear he’ll break from tradition like his family did before him.
Interestingly, the trend of college quarterbacks leaving early has been increasing, but the risk often outweighs the reward. According to a recent survey by the NCAA, nearly 75% of quarterbacks who left college early ended up in the lower rounds of the draft, highlighting the importance of experience and development at the college level.
Furthermore, Manning’s decision-making process mirrors a broader trend among young athletes. Many are leaning toward staying in school longer to hone their skills and boost their draft stock. This shift is changing how we perceive readiness for professional sports.
In summary, while the Manning name carries weight, Arch seems set on following the path of his uncles, focusing on his college career for now. It’s a decision that reflects not only family values but also a deeper understanding of the competitive landscape of the NFL Draft.
For more on upcoming NFL prospects and trends, check out this NCAA report.
