Arch Manning Clarifies NFL Draft Comments Ahead of 2025 Season

As the 2025 season approaches, Arch Manning, quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, has addressed the comments made by his grandfather, Archie Manning, regarding his potential 2026 NFL Draft plans.

Earlier this month, Archie stated that his grandson wouldn’t enter the draft after just his sophomore season. However, during a recent press conference, Arch Manning seemed to push back on that notion. “I really don’t know where he got that from,” he remarked, adding that Archie even reached out to apologize to him. At the moment, Manning emphasized he’s taking things day by day.

He also mentioned that his grandfather has been giving him advice on staying safe on the field. “These hits can accumulate,” Arch Manning noted, explaining that his grandfather frequently ends conversations with reminders about avoiding dangerous tackles.

Despite some analysts predicting he could be a top pick in the 2026 draft, discussions about his draft status have quieted for the time being. However, expectations are bound to amplify as the Longhorns prepare for their season opener against Ohio State on August 30.

This season marks an important milestone for Manning, who has played in only 12 games over his first two college seasons. Last year, he made more of an impact, amassing 939 passing yards and nine touchdowns across ten games.

Heading into the 2025 season, Texas is ranked first in the preseason Associated Press Top 25 College Football Poll.