"Dude has started 2 games": CFB world debate over Arch Manning's future

Despite only being a backup quarterback with the Texas Longhorns, Arch Manning gets a lot of attention from fans and media. The biggest reason for this is his last name. Legendary NFL quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning are his uncles. However, there is no denying that he is a talented player in his own right.

On Thursday night, NFL Rookie Watch posted on X looking at the class of quarterbacks that could be available for the 2026 NFL draft. After a weak year in 2025, they pointed out that it could be a stacked year in 2026. Arch Manning's name came up on the list.

While some fans certainly agreed that Manning should be included on the list, there were many who said it was too soon to include him.

"Arch doesn’t come out that early. Dude has started 2 games," one fan wrote.

"Arch leaving after starting only one year would be hilarious lol," one fan commented.

"Arch would be in 2027 no need to go after 12 games unless he's comes out looking like his uncles," one fan added.

Fans continued to debate whether it makes sense for Arch Manning to declare for the 2026 draft or to wait until 2027.

"Manning won’t come out until 2027!!! NFL teams want QB prospects to have minimum 20 CFB starts!! It still very good class," one fan wrote.

"If Arch last name was Jones he would be viewed differently. Entire list full of inconsistent qb play, inconsistent accuracy, guys living off potential vs production. Beck a two time CFB champion but he in portal, staying in CFB tells me a lot. Guys been in CFB 3-5 yrs list mid!," one fan commented.

"Manning is not coming out yet. quite frankly, it is another class of overrated and over-hyped mid tier and less qbs. i like exactly 2 of the others as nfl qbs," one fan added.

Arch Manning could stay in college for three more seasons

While Arch Manning was included on a list of quarterbacks that could declare for the 2026 draft, that is far from a guarantee. Manning only used his first year of eligibility this season after redshirting in 2023.

As a result, Manning still has three years left of eligibility. He is expected to start for the Longhorns next season, regardless of whether Quinn Ewers declares for the draft. Unless he has a superstar season in 2025, he might elect to stick around for another season and declare for the 2027 draft.