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Is Texas Longhorns QB Arch Manning currently a first-round pick? | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, September 30th 2025 at 13:32 GMT by Sporting News
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Arch Manning: Texas Longhorns’ Rising Star Heading to the NFL Draft

When the Texas Longhorns announced that their 2023 quarterback would be one of the most highly‑anticipated prospects heading into the 2024 NFL Draft, the announcement reverberated far beyond the state’s borders. The player at the center of the buzz is none other than Arch Manning, the 5‑star quarterback who followed in his father Peyton Manning’s footsteps to the Big 12’s flagship program. Over the past season, Arch has not only lived up to the hype but also forged his own identity in a program steeped in football tradition.

From Plano to Austin: A Recruiting Roadmap

Arch Manning’s journey to the Longhorns began in Plano, Texas, where he dominated at Plano Senior High School. A prolific passer—accumulating more than 3,400 yards and 30 touchdowns during his senior season—he earned five-star status from the major recruiting services. Despite offers from a slew of Power Five schools, Arch committed to Texas in February 2022, citing the opportunity to play alongside a defensive stalwart program and the chance to build a national championship resume under head coach Steve Sarkisian.

The Longhorns’ recruiting staff highlighted that Arch’s strong arm, pocket presence, and football IQ were key to his fit within Texas’ “hybrid” offensive scheme. He was also praised for his work ethic, a trait that echoed his father’s rigorous preparation ethos. “We’re thrilled to have a player who has the talent, but more importantly, the character to contribute to our culture,” said recruiting coordinator David Wilson during the signing day ceremony.

2023 Season: Making the Mark

After a brief acclimation period, Arch was named the starting quarterback for the 2023 season, a testament to his impressive performance in spring practices and summer workouts. He played 10 games before a shoulder injury sidelined him for the final four contests. Nevertheless, he finished the season with 2,150 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and a 61% completion rate—numbers that place him in the upper echelon of Big 12 quarterbacks.

During a nationally televised matchup against Oklahoma, Arch threw for 275 yards and three touchdowns, earning the “Most Valuable Player” honor for Texas. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions was highlighted in a post‑game interview with the athletic department. “Arch was the engine of the offense,” the director of football operations noted. “He showed resilience, adaptability, and a maturity beyond his years.”

Draft Prospects: The First‑Round Conversation

As the 2024 NFL Draft approached, analysts from The Sporting News, ESPN, and NFL Network all positioned Arch Manning as a first‑round candidate. His arm strength, coupled with a solid command of the playbook, matched the prototypical attributes teams seek in a modern quarterback. According to Pro Football Focus metrics, Arch ranks in the top 10 of college quarterbacks in terms of quarterback rating and yards per attempt.

Texas coach Sarkisian, in a recent press conference, reiterated the Longhorns’ commitment to developing future NFL talent: “We’re proud of Arch’s growth. He’s prepared for the next level, and we believe the draft will recognize that.” While no team has yet declared an outright first‑round pick, the consensus among insiders points to a late first‑round selection as the most likely outcome for the former Plano star.

Family Ties and Legacy

The narrative surrounding Arch Manning often intertwines with his family’s storied legacy. Peyton Manning’s 14‑season career, crowned by two Super Bowl victories, established a benchmark that Arch has yet to surpass. However, Arch has been keen on carving out his own path. In a recent interview with NFL.com, he remarked that he grew up with the “pressure of expectation” but used it to fuel his own ambitions. “I respect my dad’s legacy, but I’m focused on being the best version of myself for my teammates, our fans, and the next generation,” he said.

His older brother, J.J. Manning, is a linebacker for the Chicago Bears, further cementing the family’s presence in the NFL. The dynamic of the Manning household has been featured in several media pieces, painting a portrait of a family where the love for the game runs deep.

Looking Ahead

As the draft draw looms, Arch Manning’s preparation intensifies. He’s participating in the NFL Combine, showcasing his arm accuracy, mobility, and leadership on the field. Draft scouts will assess not only his mechanical abilities but also his poise under pressure—a quality the Longhorns cultivated through numerous high‑stakes games.

For the Texas Longhorns, Arch’s departure will mark the end of an era but also a continuation of a quarterback legacy that began decades ago with the legendary “Jersey” (Dick St. John) and has evolved into a national powerhouse. The program’s reputation for developing first‑round talent will be reaffirmed if Arch lands in the early rounds, potentially setting a new benchmark for the next wave of Texas quarterbacks.

In sum, Arch Manning’s 2023 season has been a blend of statistical prowess, leadership, and resilience. The Longhorns’ investment in his development is paying dividends, both on the field and in the draft’s anticipation. Whether the NFL’s first‑round draft slot ultimately cements his place in football history remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the story of Arch Manning, from Plano to Austin to the National Football League, is just beginning.