Concerns Rise Over Arch Manning’s Draft Prospects Despite Team’s Success

The Texas Longhorns, led by quarterback Arch Manning, are currently ranked number one and are strong contenders for the College Football Playoff (CFP). However, Manning’s draft stock for the 2027 NFL Draft appears to be declining, possibly even falling out of the first round. So far, Manning’s individual performance has not been outstanding.

In games against top teams like Ohio State and Tennessee, Manning struggled, throwing interceptions and completing only 195 and 201 yards in each game. These performances did not meet the high expectations set for him at the beginning of the 2026 season, when many considered him a potential Number 1 pick for the 2027 NFL Draft.

Due to his lackluster play this year, Manning’s position has dropped significantly in the draft rankings of CBS NFL Draft analyst Ryan Wilson. During a discussion about Manning’s draft standing, Wilson explained why he no longer considers Manning a first-round pick in his latest mock draft. ‘I’ve talked to people in the league who aren’t frustrated, but Arch Manning hasn’t met expectations,’ Wilson said. ‘He’s under more pressure than his uncles due to today’s technological scrutiny. Still, he hasn’t performed like a first-round pick.’

Wilson compared Manning to recent NFL draft picks known for significant arm talent but who failed as starting quarterbacks. He mentioned Anthony Richardson and Will Levis as high-upside players with similar developmental challenges. ‘Arch Manning is one of the best athletes in college football with a strong arm and versatile skills. Yet, he hasn’t played like a top 15 pick this year or the last,’ Wilson noted. ‘There are other positions to cover from picks 16 to 32, so I wouldn’t take a developmental quarterback in the first round. That could change if Manning improves dramatically, but right now, I have five other quarterbacks to consider before him if the draft were tomorrow.’

Manning’s individual performance has not matched the team success this year. Despite personal challenges, the team has performed well, giving Manning opportunities to prove his worth in key upcoming games.

Manning’s next major opportunity to boost his draft stock comes in Week 6 when Texas faces their arch-rivals, the Oklahoma Sooners, in the Red River Rivalry. The game is set for 3:30 pm EST on Saturday, October 10, and will be broadcast on ABC.