Can the New Orleans Saints Attract Arch Manning to the NFL Draft After Just One Season as a Starter?

Many fans believe that Arch Manning, the talented quarterback from Texas, will remain in college for two years before considering the NFL. This is notable because he was the only top-100 QB in his class who didn’t play significantly his first two years. His recent performance suggests he isn’t in a hurry to join the professional leagues.

This weekend, a significant change in the NFL could impact his future. Derek Carr, the Saints’ quarterback, announced his retirement. This leaves the Saints with a wide-open competition for the starting quarterback position. With second-round pick Tyler Shough, Jake Haener, and Spencer Rattler vying for the role, the team is in search of a reliable long-term solution. If nothing changes, they may find themselves in a great position to draft a top-tier quarterback in 2026.

For Arch, the idea of playing for the Saints, a team with deep family ties, is incredibly tempting. The Manning family is connected to Louisiana history. Archie Manning, Arch’s grandfather, began his NFL career with the Saints in 1971, earning accolades and respect. His number isn’t officially retired, but it hasn’t been worn since he left in 1982.

Archie’s sons—Peyton, Eli, and Cooper—grew up just a few miles from the Superdome. Arch, the son of Cooper, attended the same school and broke family records. Now, he finds himself at Texas, carving out his own identity, away from the shadow of his famous relatives. Yet, the opportunity to return to Louisiana as part of the Saints is a significant headline waiting to unfold.

While Arch prepares for his first full season as Texas’s starting quarterback, it’s essential to note he has only made two starts in his college career. Despite being the top recruit in 2023, many metrics show that success in the NFL is tied to extensive collegiate experience. As per recent statistics, only two of the league’s starting quarterbacks did not start multiple seasons in college. Most, like Kyler Murray, played consistently before entering the pro ranks, averaging around 34 starts and over 9,500 passing yards. In fact, other quarterbacks, like Drew Allar from Penn State and Garrett Nussmeier from LSU, have chosen to hone their skills further by returning for another year instead of pursuing immediate NFL aspirations.

Furthermore, patience runs in the Manning family. Peyton and Eli both dedicated four years to their college experiences before becoming number-one draft picks, mirroring Archie’s early career. Meanwhile, Arch has a chance to guide Texas to its first national championship in 20 years, setting the stage for a significant legacy of his own.

However, the allure of New Orleans and the Saints cannot be dismissed. The chance to follow in his family’s footsteps and become a local hero is a compelling narrative. Archie would certainly have stories to tell about the impact a quarterback can have in the heart of the city.

Ultimately, when it’s time to make a decision, Arch may lean towards continuing his college career. He and his family understand the value of taking time to develop. Interestingly, New Orleans also has its sights on potentially drafting other local talents, like Nussmeier, who now serves as the Saints’ offensive coordinator.

With a year left until the 2026 NFL Draft, it’s clear the Saints may have the first pick. They will be looking for a franchise quarterback. The stage is set for a historic moment in New Orleans, so it will be interesting to see if Arch decides to embrace this opportunity or continue his collegiate journey.

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