Arch Manning Looks To Take a Step Forward In 2026
Texas Longhorns Quarterback Arch Manning is looking to take a step forward in 2026. Here’s what you need to know about Manning, 21, and his future.
Arch Manning Looks to Take a Step Forward
New Year’s resolutions often fail due to a combination of factors, such as a lack of ambition, a surplus of vagueness, and a dark cloud of shame. However, Manning’s apparent New Year’s resolution appears to be achievable.
Manning helped the Texas Longhorns secure a 41-27 win over the Michigan Wolverines in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Eve. The 21-year-old completed 61.7% of his throws for 221 yards and 2 touchdowns.
After Wednesday’s game, reporters informed him that his uncle, Pro Football Hall of Fame Quarterback Peyton Manning, also played in the bowl game and won the MVP.
“Nothing against the Citrus Bowl, but I think he played it twice,” he said on Wednesday. “I don’t want to have to play in it twice.”
Previously, the New Orleans, Louisiana native announced that he will forgo the 2026 NFL Draft and return to the Longhorns for his junior season in Austin, Texas.
Arch Manning’s Outlook
Manning’s wishes may be granted, but there’s more than meets the eye. He appears to have his sights set on a College Football Playoff (CFP) appearance next fall instead of declaring for the NFL Draft next spring.
The Longhorns, who finished at No. 13 in the final CFP rankings, failed to secure a playoff spot this season. Previously, Texas appeared to be a playoff contender heading into the 2025 NCAA season. Texas’ offseason was played up by its No. 1 spot in the first AP Top 21 poll.
The Longhorns’ CFP hopes ended in a disappointing semifinal loss for the second straight season. Previously, Texas lost to the Washington Huskies 37-31 in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1, 2024. Washington went on to play Michigan in the title game, but the latter won 34-13 to secure their first national title since 1997.
Just days later, Texas lost two of its first five games, with losses to Ohio State and Florida on Aug. 30 and Oct. 4, respectively. He struggled to meet the sky-high expectations to open his first season as a full-time starting quarterback. He completed 53.3% of his throws for 579 yards and six touchdowns compared to three interceptions.
He appeared to be more comfortable as the regular season continued. He completed 63.2% of his passes for 2,363 yards and 18 touchdowns, while throwing just four interceptions.
He stayed sharp against Michigan on Wednesday. He scored four touchdowns in total, leading Texas to its third straight season with at least 10 wins. His supporting cast, led by teammates such as Running Back Christian Clark and Wide Receivers Parker Livingstone, Emmett Mosley V, and Ryan Wingo, helped him on and off the field.
Final Thoughts
Arch Manning is following the footsteps of his famous family, especially his grandfather Archie Manning and uncles Peyton and Eli Manning, who significantly contributed to the American football world. Arch’s Citrus Bowl performance showcased his development, along with his determination to continue his family’s legacy.
Previously, Arch expressed pride in being part of the Manning family and emphasized the importance of stepping up and contributing to his team, despite facing challenges early on. Arch’s decision to return for another season at Texas reflects his commitment to building his own legacy while honoring his family’s significant contributions.
