Will Arch Manning Go to NFL? Execs Explain Why QB Should Skip Draft, Return to Texas

There's belief within the NFL that Texas quarterback Arch Manning should return to the Longhorns in 2026 instead of declaring for the draft.

"It doesn't benefit us (in the NFL) if all these guys come out early and aren't ready," an NFL team executive told Jeff Howe of The Athletic.

Another executive explained how quarterbacks declining to enter the draft early and staying in college is beneficial for everyone involved.

"I don't know why any of them would consider leaving," the executive told Howe. "Why not go play college football and build yourself to get to that level? I think it helps everybody. I think it puts a better product on the field in college. It helps us evaluate them longer, as they get real reps to amass experience before coming to our level."

The executive's latter point is particularly relevant regarding Manning, as he only had two college starts under his belt heading into the 2025 season. He showed promise while primarily operating as a backup in 2024, throwing for 939 yards and nine touchdowns compared to two interceptions across 10 games.

Manning didn't blow past expectations to open his 2025 campaign, completing 60.0 percent of his throws for 1,151 yards and 11 touchdowns to go along with five interceptions in his first five appearances. The Longhorns also owned a record of 3-2.

He's fared much better in the seven games since, throwing for 1,791 yards and 13 touchdowns while gettin picked off twice. Manning has also posted a 62.1 completion percentage, helping lead Texas to a 6-1 record across that span.

Staying in college could also benefit the signal-caller financially. According to the latest NIL evaluations from On3.com, Manning ranks No. 1 among all college athletes with a valuation of $5.3 million.

If the 21-year-old chooses to remain in college, he should immediate become one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2027 draft.