Overview
- Coach Steve Sarkisian has described telling Arch Manning to “be himself” and to relax as the tipping point that let Manning play more instinctively and use his legs more often.
- Analytics from PFF show Manning’s play improved dramatically down the stretch, with an 89.5 grade from Week 9 onward that ranked among the nation’s best over that span.
- Texas overhauled its roster in the offseason with high-profile transfers and depth upgrades that leave the Longhorns widely viewed as one of the country’s deepest teams.
- Manning entered 2026 on major award watch lists, including the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, and is listed among early Heisman and top‑pick betting conversations.
- Draft evaluators say Manning can be a top 2027 pick if he sustains cleaner footwork, steadier decision‑making and consistent ball placement across a full season otherwise he may return to Texas.