Overview

• An ESPN survey of 25 NFL scouts and executives gave Manning one vote for 2026 QB1, with Pete Thamel reporting many expect he will wait until 2027 to enter the draft.
• Through three starts he is completing 55.3% of his passes for 579 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions, plus 112 rushing yards and three rushing scores.
• Chase Daniel attributes the struggles to off-kilter mechanics, while Joel Klatt says Manning is pressing and getting ahead of the offense’s timing.
• Nick Saban says outsized expectations are fueling anxiety that slows development and noted Texas’ inconsistent run game has heightened pressure on the quarterback.
• Tim Tebow, Steve Sarkisian and former Longhorn David Ash urged patience and growth, with Daniel praising Manning’s NFL-caliber frame after meeting him as Texas hosts Sam Houston before SEC play.