Arch Manning is currently serving as a backup quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, behind starter Quinn Ewers. However, he is expected to see playing time this season when Texas has a substantial lead, similar to last week’s game.
Although Manning is a redshirt freshman and has not yet started a college game, his impressive lineage has sparked discussions among football fans about his eligibility for the NFL draft. Manning, who is 19 years old and graduated from Isidore Newman in 2023, will not be eligible to declare for the draft until he is at least three years removed from high school. This means he could enter the draft as early as 2026, though he may choose to attend college longer.
Manning comes from a family of football stars; both of his uncles, Peyton and Eli, played four years in college, with Peyton attending Tennessee and Eli going to Ole Miss. While this familial background does not guarantee that Arch will stay at Texas for an extended period, it is an interesting aspect of his career.
Cooper Manning, Arch’s father, is not as famous as his football-playing brothers, but he was a standout high school wide receiver before his football career ended due to spinal stenosis.
Fans hoping to see Arch Manning in the NFL will need to wait at least until after the 2024 season, as he is expected to remain in college for another year.