Texas QB Arch Manning is the Current Favorite to Win Prestigious Award in 2025

Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, July 30th 2025 at 0:05 GMT by Athlon Sports
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The hype surrounding Texas quarterback Arch Manning this season is unreal.

Arch Manning's Journey: The Texas QB's Current Status and Future Prospects

In the high-stakes world of college football, few names carry as much weight as Manning. Arch Manning, the latest prodigy from the legendary Manning family, has been under the microscope since his high school days. As the nephew of NFL icons Peyton and Eli Manning, and grandson of Archie Manning, Arch arrived at the University of Texas with expectations that could fill Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium several times over. Now in his sophomore year, Manning finds himself in a pivotal position as the backup quarterback to starter Quinn Ewers, navigating the complexities of patience, development, and the ever-present spotlight. This article delves into Manning's current standing with the Longhorns, his on-field progress, the challenges he faces, and what the future might hold for this blue-chip talent.

Arch Manning's path to Texas was anything but ordinary. Born into football royalty, he grew up in New Orleans, where the Manning legacy is as much a part of the city's fabric as jazz and beignets. At Isidore Newman School—the same institution attended by his uncles and grandfather—Manning shattered records and drew comparisons to his famous relatives from an early age. As a five-star recruit and the consensus No. 1 prospect in the class of 2023, his college decision was one of the most anticipated in recent memory. Powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Ole Miss vied for his commitment, but Manning ultimately chose Texas, citing the program's rich history, head coach Steve Sarkisian's offensive expertise, and the opportunity to carve out his own identity away from the SEC shadows cast by his family.

Upon enrolling early in January 2023, Manning's freshman season was a study in restraint. He appeared in just two games, completing 2 of 5 passes for 30 yards in mop-up duty against Texas Tech and in the spring game. This limited action was by design; Sarkisian emphasized a redshirt year to allow Manning to acclimate to the college level without the pressure of immediate performance. "Arch is a sponge," Sarkisian said in a post-season press conference. "He's absorbing everything—the playbook, the speed of the game, the leadership aspects. We're not rushing him because we know what he can become." This approach mirrored the patience shown with other high-profile quarterbacks, but for Manning, it meant biding his time behind Ewers, a former top recruit himself who transferred from Ohio State and has since solidified his role as the starter.

Fast forward to the current season, and Manning's status remains that of a highly capable understudy. With Texas off to a strong start and eyeing a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff, Ewers has been the unquestioned leader under center. However, Manning's development has been evident in practices and limited glimpses. During the Longhorns' spring game earlier this year, he showcased his arm strength and poise, throwing for over 300 yards and multiple touchdowns in a scrimmage setting. Teammates have raved about his work ethic, with wide receiver Johntay Cook noting, "Arch is always the first one in the film room and the last to leave. He's got that Manning mentality—it's all about preparation." This dedication has not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff, who have incorporated Manning into more scout-team reps to simulate game scenarios and build his confidence.

Yet, the current landscape isn't without its hurdles. The pressure on Manning is immense, amplified by social media and a fanbase hungry for the next chapter in Texas football's resurgence. Critics have speculated about his patience, wondering if the allure of the transfer portal might tempt him if playing time remains scarce. After all, in an era where quarterbacks like Caleb Williams and Shedeur Sanders have thrived by switching schools, the option is always there. Manning, however, has publicly downplayed such notions. In a rare interview, he stated, "I'm here at Texas because I believe in this team and this system. I'm learning every day, and when my time comes, I'll be ready." This maturity belies his youth—he's still just 19—and speaks to the grounding influence of his family, who have navigated similar spotlights.

One aspect of Manning's current situation that has garnered attention is his approach to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Unlike many peers who have cashed in on lucrative deals, Manning has been selective, focusing primarily on football rather than endorsements. He recently made headlines by opting into the EA Sports College Football 25 video game, a move that aligns with his low-key persona while still engaging with fans. This decision underscores his priority: building a legacy on the field, not off it. "I want to earn everything through my play," Manning has said, echoing the work-first ethos of his uncles.

Looking ahead, Manning's trajectory could shift dramatically depending on several factors. Ewers, a redshirt junior, is eligible for the NFL Draft after this season, and his performance—coupled with Texas's success—will dictate whether he stays or goes pro. If Ewers departs, Manning would be the frontrunner to start in 2025, potentially leading a talented roster that includes returning stars like running back CJ Baxter and a stout defense. Sarkisian has been effusive in his praise, comparing Manning's arm talent to that of elite pros. "The ball just jumps out of his hand," the coach remarked. "He's got the size, the accuracy, and the intangibles that make great quarterbacks."

But what if Ewers returns? Manning might face another year on the sidelines, testing his resolve. Texas has also brought in other quarterback talent, like freshman Trey Owens, adding depth and competition. This scenario raises questions about long-term planning: Is Manning content to wait, or could impatience lead to a transfer? Analysts point to successful backups like Jalen Hurts, who transferred from Alabama to Oklahoma and flourished, as a potential blueprint. However, Manning's ties to Texas—bolstered by the program's investment in him—suggest he's in it for the long haul.

Beyond the immediate future, Manning's current status reflects broader trends in college football. The quarterback position has never been more volatile, with transfers, injuries, and high expectations creating a pressure cooker environment. For Texas, a program still chasing its first national title since 2005, Manning represents hope. His family name brings prestige, but it's his potential that excites. Scouts project him as a future first-round NFL pick, praising his 6-foot-4 frame, pocket presence, and ability to extend plays.

In conversations with those close to the program, there's a sense of optimism tempered with realism. "Arch is special, but he's human," one insider shared. "The key is keeping him engaged and growing." Fan forums buzz with debates: Should Sarkisian give him more reps? Is he being underutilized? These discussions highlight the unique burden of the Manning name—expectations that are both a blessing and a curse.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Manning's cameos and any hints of expanded roles. Whether he steps into the starting lineup sooner than expected or continues his apprenticeship, one thing is clear: Arch Manning is not just living up to a legacy; he's forging his own. In the burnt orange of Texas, he embodies the intersection of tradition and ambition, a quarterback whose current backup role belies a future that could redefine Longhorn football. With patience as his ally and talent as his weapon, Manning's story is far from written, but the chapters ahead promise to be compelling.

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Texas QB Arch Manning is the Current Favorite to Win Prestigious Award in 2025

Arch Manning's Journey: The Texas QB's Current Status and Future Prospects