Arch Manning's CFB Transfer Portal Landing Spot Predicted by Insider Amid Texas Benching Buzz

One person connected to Texas quarterback Arch Manning reportedly feels he is more likely to transfer to another school than enter the 2027 NFL draft.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero said around the 36:45 mark of Friday's Bill Simmons Podcast he had texted someone who knew Manning to ask where the quarterback was likely to end up next season.

"His response was, 'Ole Miss,'" Pelissero said.

Both Manning's grandfather Archie Manning and his uncle Eli Manning starred for, and later had their numbers retired by, Ole Miss.

Manning said during his own recruitment process his top choices had been Texas, Georgia and Alabama.

The Rebels could be looking for a quarterback next offseason. Trinidad Chambliss is both in his final year of collegiate eligibility and listed as the No. 14 overall prospect on Bleacher Report's latest NFL draft big board.

The speculation comes after Texas coach Steve Sarkisian told reporters he is hoping to see "a better version of Arch" after consecutive Longhorns losses to unranked opponents.

Steve Sarkisian also said Manning's QB1 status would be re-evaluated after No. 19 Texas matchups up Saturday against No. 7 Ole Miss.

Eli Manning, who spent four seasons with the Rebels between 2000 and 2003, talked about the positives of a longer college career when asked about his nephew's future in an appearance earlier this month on the Colin Cowherd Podcast.

"I think that's the whole point of college, is to enjoy being in college, to get better every year," Eli said. "To play more games, to get better, to get more prepared for the NFL, to try to win a national championship or an SEC championship... I'm proud of Arch, and how he's handled this, and his mindset. He's focused on the next game, this year, and just doing his job."

Manning, initially projected as a candidate for the 2027 draft, has struggled to develop consistently in his second season as a full-time starter for the Longhorns.

Whether Manning is able to hold off backup quarterback KJ Lacey from getting a shot at the starter's job this weekend could determine what his future with the Longhorns looks like going forward.