Arch Manning’s name alone sparks NFL Draft chatter. But if he listens to his legendary grandfather Archie Manning, the Texas quarterback could carve out a career path similar to recent breakout stars like Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix, who used extended college experience to set themselves up for early NFL success.
Why More College Starts Could Benefit Arch
In a recent segment by On3’s J.D. PicKell, the analyst emphasized a proven truth in football development: “The more starts you have in college, the more set up for success you are when you get to the NFL.”
Citing Daniels and Nix, both of whom logged over 40 collegiate starts before being drafted in the first round, PicKell argued that Manning is best served not by chasing the No. 1 draft pick prematurely, but by building a strong foundation first.
Arch’s grandfather, Archie Manning, echoes that sentiment, believing the family has never prioritized jumping to the NFL quickly. Archie told reporters he hasn’t discussed a post-2025 plan with Arch but expressed full confidence that his grandson would likely remain in school longer, just as Peyton and Eli did.
Arch Manning’s Plan Aligns With Proven Quarterback Blueprint
While fans might clamor to see Manning leap to the NFL after his first full season as Texas’s starting quarterback, patience could be the smarter route. The 2024 redshirt freshman saw limited action in 10 games, but his flashes of brilliance, like a five-touchdown game against UTSA, showed his high ceiling. Yet, with only two starts under his belt, the sample size is still small.
NEW: Archie Manning predicts grandson Arch will not declare for 2026 NFL Draft:
“Arch isn’t going to do that. He’ll be at Texas.”
(via @TexasMonthly)https://t.co/hawuy5yH43 pic.twitter.com/EjzDo7vv3E
— On3 (@On3sports) August 7, 2025
That’s exactly why more collegiate reps, just like Daniels and Nix had, could be vital. Both players transferred and developed over several seasons before taking command of the NFL spotlight. Daniels starred at both Arizona State and LSU, while Nix made his leap at Oregon after a booming start at Auburn. Manning, with the stability of Steve Sarkisian’s offense and a strong supporting cast, has a golden opportunity to follow suit.
Legacy Pressure vs. Long-Term Career
Arch’s last name naturally brings lofty expectations. His uncles Peyton and Eli were both No. 1 overall picks. But Archie seems more concerned with long-term career success than early draft hype. “It’s not just about getting into the NFL, it’s about having the best career possible,” PicKell reiterated.
KEEP READING: Similarity in Archie Manning and Patrick Mahomes’ Statements Visible As Arch Manning’s NFL Draft Future Becomes Clear
If Arch wins a national championship or earns Heisman buzz in 2025, there may be strong pressure to declare early. But even then, Archie and the Manning family might advise him to return and refine his game further, ensuring he’s not only drafted highly but ready to thrive immediately.
