Arch Manning has decided to return to Texas for a fourth season rather than enter the 2026 NFL draft, according to reports.
The 21-year-old, the latest quarterback prospect in football’s most famous family, was once tipped as a possible No 1 overall pick in the class of 2026.
But, according to 247 Sports, Manning is expected to be back in Austin for the 2026 campaign.
The redshirt sophomore – the grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Super Bowl winners Peyton and Eli Manning – endured a tough first season as the starting quarterback of the Longhorns.
Texas entered the 2025 campaign as the No 1-ranked team in the country, with Manning favorite to win the Heisman Trophy.
But the Longhorns ultimately missed out on the College Football Playoff after regular-season losses to Ohio State, Georgia and Florida.
Arch Manning has reportedly decided to return to Texas rather than enter the 2026 NFL draft
The 21-year-old is the latest quarterback prospect in football’s most famous family
Manning scores a touchdown in Texas’ win over rival Texas A&M back in November
Manning came in for heavy criticism for his early-season performances, with Texas fans even booing him against UTEP. ‘I was playing like garbage,’ he later admitted.
The quarterback improved as the season progressed and it’s said Manning wants to extend his college career and continue his relationship with Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian.
‘I’m forever grateful for him,’ Manning said following Texas’ 27-17 victory over rival Texas A&M who were then ranked No 3 in the country.
Manning, who gave Sarkisian the game ball after that victory last month, added: ‘When I wasn’t playing well, I was missing throws and probably making his play calls look bad.
‘He could’ve thrown me under the bus, but he never did. He always uplifted me. He never blamed it on me in the media or anything. We just kept chopping wood.’
The Longhorns will end the 2025 season with a Citrus Bowl showdown against Michigan on New Year’s Eve.
Sarkisian was asked recently if Manning would be returning to Texas in 2026. ‘I haven’t asked him. Maybe I should. I feel pretty good about it,’ he said with a smile.
