As the 2025 college football season approaches, speculation surrounding Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning’s potential entry into the 2026 NFL Draft has ignited fervent discussions among fans and analysts alike. Manning, the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, is poised to take the reins as Texas’ starting quarterback following Quinn Ewers’ declaration for the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite the widespread anticipation of Manning’s NFL prospects, ESPN’s Adam Schefter has cautioned teams against presuming his availability in the 2026 draft. Schefter highlighted the possibility of Manning extending his collegiate career beyond his sophomore year, citing family precedent and the substantial financial incentives provided by Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Manning’s NIL valuation has soared to an estimated $6.6 million, bolstered by a recent endorsement deal with Red Bull. This partnership not only underscores his marketability but also reflects the evolving landscape of college athletics, where top talents can secure significant earnings without rushing into professional leagues. In light of these developments, NFL fans have taken to social media to express their hopes and strategies for their teams to secure Manning in the 2026 draft. Pittsburgh Steelers supporters, in particular, have been vocal about their desire to see Manning don the black and gold. One fan exclaimed, “The tank for Arch Manning is on!” while another envisioned, “It’s gonna HIT when the Steelers trade up to draft Arch Manning in front of the home crowd in 2026.” Similarly, fans of other franchises have contemplated the notion of their teams positioning themselves advantageously for Manning’s potential draft. Discussions have revolved around the idea of “tanking”—deliberately underperforming to secure a higher draft pick—to increase the chances of drafting the coveted quarterback. One fan suggested, “Better to tank next year for Arch Manning in ’26 lol. Draft OL this year.” However, not all fans are in agreement regarding the timing of Manning’s NFL entry. Some college football enthusiasts believe that he should maximize his development at the collegiate level before making the leap to the pros. Debates have emerged, with one fan asserting, “He should go,” while others argue for Manning to remain at Texas to further hone his skills. The New York Giants also find themselves in a complex situation concerning their quarterback future. With Daniel Jones’ tenure uncertain and the 2025 draft class perceived as lacking elite quarterback talent, the Giants face a dilemma. Some analysts suggest that the team exercise patience, potentially eyeing prospects like Manning in future drafts. As the narrative around Arch Manning continues to evolve, both fans and NFL franchises remain on high alert, eagerly anticipating his decisions and performances in the upcoming seasons. Whether he chooses to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft or extend his time with the Longhorns, Manning’s trajectory will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the football landscape.
