2026 NFL Draft Prospect- QB- Arch Manning
Sportsvival is here to break down the top prospects destined for the 2026 NFL Draft class, spotlighting the breakout stars poised to make an immediate impact. From dynamic quarterbacks to game-wrecker edge rushers, we’ll analyze the film, metrics, and intangibles that set these athletes apart. Tune in as Sportsvival delivers the comprehensive scouting insights you need to know before draft day.
Today we profile:
QB- Arch Manning
Texas
6’4” 219 lbs.
Born: April 27, 2004
Arch Manning played high school football at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans. As a freshman, Manning started on the varsity team, becoming the first freshman to start Newman’s opener in at least 40 years. He shined during his freshman season, throwing for over 2,500 yards and 34 touchdowns, earning MaxPreps National Freshman of the Year honors.
Manning’s numbers weren’t quite as impressive his sophomore season, but he still threw for 1,919 yards and 21 touchdowns while completing over 67% of his passes.
The youngster led Isidore Newman to the third round of the playoffs during his junior season. He finished the season throwing for 1,841 yards and 26 touchdowns, with just four interceptions. He also helped the team by rushing for six touchdowns.
Manning was the captain of his football team as a senior in 2022. During the season he broke the record of his uncle Eli’s career passing yards of 7,268 and he also broke uncle Peyton’s record of 93 career touchdown passes. He finished the season throwing for 2,270 yards and 34 touchdowns, while completing 61.1% of his passes and only throwing two interceptions.
Manning was a 5-star recruit and one of the most sought after prospects in recent memory. During his college search he visited Georgia, Clemson, LSU, SMU, Clemson, Alabama, Texas, Virginia, and Ole Miss.
He signed a letter of intent and later committed on June 23, 2022 to the University of Texas.
Manning is the grandson of Archie Manning and the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, all had successful NFL careers.
Manning redshirted in 2023 at Texas. He played in two games, only attempting five passes.
In his redshirt freshman season in 2024, Manning played in 10 games, including two starts against Louisiana-Monroe and Mississippi State. Manning showed what he was capable of–completing 67.8% of his passes for 938 yards and nine touchdowns.
Manning enters the 2025 season as one of the top Heisman candidates.
Strengths
NFL DNA
Pre-snap recognition
Elite pocket presence
Leadership ability
More athletic than given credit for
Ability to put touch on deep passes
Textbook mechanics
Manning has the name and the DNA of three ex-NFL quarterbacks, this is not an automatic plus, but it surely helps who he can talk to about things he sees.
The 6’4” quarterback is very smart and has shown the ability to read defenses before the snap. For a young quarterback, he has exceptional pocket presence and does not get happy feet when confronted with blitzes.
He has the makeup of a pure leader who can lead his team by example. Manning has the ability to tuck the ball away and run, something that you didn’t see much from his uncles. His throwing mechanics are elite and he throws a pretty deep ball with the right amount of touch.
Weaknesses
He can force passes into windows that aren’t open.
Collegiate experience is behind other prospects in this class
Accuracy is shaky outside the pocket
Manning can force passes from time to time thinking he can always fit the ball into tight windows, this could lead to more turnovers over a full season.
As of right now he has only started two college games and will have to prove that he can perform against the elite SEC teams.
Although he has the ability to tuck the ball under and run, his accuracy definitely takes a hit when he is on the move.
Pro Comparison
Peyton Manning
It is hard not to compare Arch to his uncle Peyton Manning. Both quarterbacks are very cerebral with the ability to lead a franchise. The throwing mechanics are elite and pure. Arch has more athleticism but will have to show he can match Peyton’s consistency.
Final Thoughts
Manning could be the No. 1 pick of the draft in 2026, but he has college time left and everything his grandfather Archie is saying, he will be back in Texas next season. This remains to be seen.
(photo courtesy of CNN)