Overview
- This week several NFL evaluators, highlighted by CBS analyst Ryan Wilson, told reporters they believe Manning has not met preseason expectations and one analyst said he would pick five other QBs ahead of Manning right now.
- Texas remains unbeaten at 4-0 even as Manning’s individual numbers through four games stand at 73 of 115 for 862 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions, showing team success but uneven quarterback play.
- Early 2027 mock drafts have begun moving Manning outside the first round as league sources label him more of a developmental prospect than a Day‑1 starter.
- A USA Today poll of 14 Heisman voters found none would currently put Manning on their ballot, yet family and opponents continue to back him publicly with Eli Manning pledging support and Oklahoma coach Brent Venables praising his talent.
- Manning now faces a clear decision point: use high‑profile games like the Red River Rivalry and the Oct. 24 Ole Miss matchup to restore first‑round momentum or consider returning to college to refine reads and processing at the cost of injury risk.