Texas QB Arch Manning Expected 2026 NFL Draft Top Prospect

Arch Manning, the Texas Longhorns quarterback and nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, has been highly hyped as a top NFL prospect despite limited college experience. Analysts like Nick Baumgardner and reports from The New York Times praise his size, arm talent, poise, and ability to process plays, projecting him as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft if he continues to develop. However, some skepticism remains, notably from ESPN analyst Aaron Murray, who questions Manning's draft stock given that he was unable to supplant seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers as the starter earlier. Manning's 2024 season stats include a 67.8% completion rate, 939 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and few interceptions, showing promise but not yet dominance. CBS Sports projects Manning to be the No. 4 overall pick, possibly to the New York Jets, rather than the top pick, indicating some variance in expert opinions. Overall, while Manning is widely regarded as a blue-chip quarterback prospect with strong potential, his upcoming full season as a starter will be critical in confirming his NFL draft status.