Arch Manning Weighs In on Heisman Trophy Hype Ahead of 2nd Season as Texas' Starting QB

Despite being regarded as a Heisman frontrunner going into the 2026 season, Arch Manning's only focus is on helping Texas win as many games as possible.

Speaking to reporters from the Manning Passing Academy this week, Arch offered a very diplomatic response when asked about the Heisman Trophy.

"I'm just worried about the team," Manning said. "I'm just worried about getting through this afternoon workout here in the heat."

The hype around Manning has been present since June 2022 when he committed to Texas as the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2023 class.

Despite his status as an elite prospect, Manning took a patient approach by waiting until his third season with the Longhorns to become the starter. He was their No. 3 quarterback as a freshman, behind Quinn Ewers and Maalik Murphy.

The 2024 season saw Manning get more reps, but Ewers was still atop the depth chart. He finally got elevated last year, throwing for 3,163 yards, running for 399 yards and accounting for 36 touchdowns in 13 games.

Two months away from the start of the 2026 season, Manning has the second-best odds to win the Heisman after Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr. Texas hasn't had a Heisman winner since Ricky Williams in 1998.

Manning's place in the Heisman race is one of many key storylines for the 22-year-old. He is also trying to lead Texas to the College Football Playoff after just missing out last season, and there is a growing consensus that he is the favorite to be the No. 1 pick in the 2027 NFL draft.

That's a lot of pressure for a player with just 15 college starts under his belt, but Manning has lived in the spotlight for most of his life as the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning.

Manning and the Longhorns will open the 2026 season against Texas State on Sept. 5.