Arch Manning Preseason Prospect Review

Arch Manning (QB Texas)

Film Grade: 89.33 (Late 1st/Early 2nd)

Arch Manning has a lot of hype heading into his redshirt sophomore season. The nephew of Eli and Peyton Manning has shown that he is more than just the name on the back of his jersey. Last year he finished with Nine passing touchdowns, Four rushing touchdowns, 1,047 total yardsj, and a 67.8 completion percentage. While these numbers don’t usually justify first round hype, Manning spent a lot of the year backing up the now Miami Dolphins quarterback, Quinn Ewers. Over the course of last year Manning saw significant playing time against UTSA, ULM, and Mississippi State. While none of these teams provide great competition, Manning was still very impressive in these games. He was able to show off his effortless arm talent and athletic ability. While it is still unknown what Arch Manning looks like as a full-time starter against high-caliber SEC programs, there is a lot to like going into next season.

Positives:

• Effortless arm talent
• Good/Consistent mechanics + footwork
• Has the ability to throw from multiple arm positions
• Accurate
• Does a good job getting through progressions
• Dual threat
• Great touch on deep balls
• Can make throws under pressure
• Has shown the ability to get the ball out on time/play in structure
• Showcased his ability to throw on the move going both right and left
• Good pocket movement
• No waisted movement in the pocket/calm while being rushed
• Break away speed
• Does a solid job reading RPOs and Read options

Negatives

• Lack of playing time
• Has not started against good competition
• Can sometimes get happy feet and panic while being consistently pressured
• Sometimes believes in his arm too much leading to turnovers/dangerous throws
• Occasionally holds the ball too long
• Missed some open throws vs ULM

Final thoughts

There is some speculation Arch Manning will not declare for the 2026 NFL Draft. My personal opinion is if he is confident he will be the first overall pick and likes the situation he will declare. If both of those things are not true, he will take the millions of NIL and stay another year at Texas. Regardless, he has the ability to push for the top quarterback in the class. With more playing time I expect Manning’s grade to improve into an early-mid first round player. Fans of quarterback needy teams stay on the outlook for Arch Manning!