Well, Quinn Ewers’ departure for the NFL leaves Arch Manning to take the reins for Texas, steering him straight into the spotlight. While Steve Sarkisian hasn’t confirmed it, the Longhorns appear set on a quarterback for 2025. The real question is what happens after that. Arch may be easing into college football this season, but the 19-year-old won’t be there long.

NFL teams are already circling, eagerly awaiting his arrival once he’s ready for the professional ranks. But now that Arch is making an early 2026 draft buzz, there’s a what-if question lingering around if, at all, he decides to follow his uncles Eli and Peyton’s NFL path.

So, we all know both Eli Manning and Peyton Manning took their time before stepping into the NFL’s glory. On one side, Eli stayed with Ole Miss for 5 years and, and even Peyton stayed with Tennessee for 4 years before turning pro. And boy, it worked pretty well for both of them. Peyton was the first overall pick by the Colts in 1998, and even Eli was first overall by the Chargers, but he refused to play for them and ended up with the Giants. But the bottom line is that both got the top spots because of their remarkable college stats.

Now, back to the present: Arch Manning is going to take charge of the Longhorns this season, but this guy is already drawing NFL buzz, and DraftKings Sportsbook hit IG with the 2026 NFL draft odds. But here’s the twist: Arch is surely projected in the number 1 overall pick list with +200 odds. Which is pretty impressive; even the caption states the same story: “The 2026 NFL Draft feels a long way off. But the Arch Manning sweepstakes are already heating up.” Only if he is willing to make that move.

Arch Manning sure has capabilities as a backup in the past two seasons. Manning appeared in a total of nine games. And last season, he showed what he is actually capable of, throwing for 939 yards with 9 TDs with just 2 interceptions. Not just that, even his 67.8% completion rate was pretty impressive. Now, you can understand why, despite not even playing a single game as a starter, Arch is already making NFL buzz. Not just that, but one team is already eyeing him. Crazy, right?

The Cleveland Browns made a bold move, trading with the Jacksonville Jaguars for future draft picks. They sent a second-rounder and some later picks to acquire a 2026 first-round selection, a clear sign of their long-term vision. Many fans and analysts believe this positions them to draft Arch Manning when he enters the 2026 NFL Draft.

Imagine passing on a Heisman winner, Travis Hunter; that sure means something—at least fans are finding it fishy. The moment the news of this trade came out, fans started bombing X and straight up declaring, “Arch Manning, you’re already a Cleveland Brown.” Making it look like a strategic move. But all this conjecture might go straight into the drain if Arch Manning decides to follow his uncle’s path, and fans are tipping over it.

Fans disbelief over Arch Manning draft situation

Arch Manning, a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft, is undoubtedly the most talked-about QB this season. Knowing his family history with uncles Peyton and Eli, former number one overall picks, and grandfather Archie, a number two pick in 1971, the early NFL buzz is evident. Plus Arch Manning’s impressive freshman season at Texas, including a 42.1% completion rate on passes of 20+ yards, showcases his potential. While the 2026 drafts are drawing attention, there’s still no certainty that Arch is going to declare next season.

Look, Arch Manning’s stats are sure promising, but not so extraordinary that they will land him no. 1 overall. And even Archie Manning believes the same about waiting and improving your skills. As he offered some wisdom to Cam Ward at the Manning Award—emphasizing the value of a senior season for NFL readiness, “You were headed to the NFL and made a decision to play another year of college football. It looks like a very wise decision. Looking back on it, I’m sure Cam will admit another year of college football prepares you for that big transition to the NFL.” No wonder this fan’s commenting this: Guarantee Arch doesn’t declare next year he’s going to follow in Eli and Peyton’s footsteps and stay.”

Look, if we go by facts, this decision makes sense. In the last 25 years, only two quarterbacks—Cam Newton and Kyler Murray—were top overall draft picks after just one year as a full-time starter. Both enjoyed successful but short college careers. Most top picks, including Peyton and Eli Manning’s uncles, spent more time developing their skills in college. While the transfer portal and expanded College Football Playoff create a different landscape for Manning, the precedent for extended college careers remains strong. So when fans hit IG with comments like, “Arch is staying another year; that’s just what the Mannings do,” It sure makes sense.

Peyton played four years at Tennessee, becoming a Heisman runner-up, and Eli started three years at Ole Miss before being drafted first overall in 2004. Manning might follow family tradition by patiently waiting, using a senior season to prove NFL readiness and gain valuable experience to handle professional pressures. No wonder fans are so sure about Arch Manning’s move. “Arch Manning will not be in the 2026 draft,” a fan claimed.

Now, Arch Manning’s decision might also hinge partly on finances. His $6.6 million NIL valuation, the highest in college sports, significantly outweighs potential rookie NFL earnings. Caleb Williams’s $39.5 million contract highlights the potential for Manning to earn far more through NIL deals before going pro. This financial incentive could easily tip the scales toward a senior season. So, if that’s the case, this fan’s prediction might be on point: “Arch isn’t coming out.”

Arch Manning’s 2026 draft stock hinges on his 2025 performance, especially the season-opening game against Ohio State. His family’s history suggests the Mannings will weigh his performance alongside potential NFL landing spots. So, making such a big fuss about it, commenting on things like, “The 2027 arch will be available,” doesn’t make much sense.

A repeat of Eli Manning’s controversial draft-day trade is possible, with Arch potentially influencing his team selection. Ultimately, declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft depends on Arch’s assessment of his future, both athletically and financially.