Texas Longhorns starting quarterback Arch Manning didn’t have an awe-inspiring start to the 2025 college football season. It might have even tempered expectations from those who already projected Manning as a 2026 NFL Draft prospect after this season.
Manning had trouble completing passes downfield at times, but finished with one touchdown pass and one interception in top-ranked Texas’ 14-7 loss to third-ranked Ohio State.
As the game played out, a former NFL quarterback offered his thoughts on Manning, specifically that he believes Manning was playing with an undisclosed injury.
What Did This Former NFL QB Say About Arch Manning?
Kurt Benkert, who took a knee twice in his only NFL appearance in 2021 with the Green Bay Packers, took to X on Saturday to suggest that Manning was playing with a shoulder injury.
“Arch clearly has a shoulder injury. They definitely aren’t disclosing it,” Benkert wrote. “He has zero power and has to put everything he can into it. Wouldn’t be shocked if he strained it in camp. Doesn’t change the fact that his decision-making has been really bad – I’m not glazing anything I’m calling it as I see it”.
Arch clearly has a shoulder injury.
They definitely aren’t disclosing it.
— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) August 30, 2025
When a person responded to Benkert that the “sidearm looks so uncomfortable,” Benkert replied, “It’s BAD”.
Before and after the game at Ohio State, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns’ medical staff did not mention that Manning might have any physical limitations. Fox Sports broadcasters Gus Johnson and Joel Klatt also did not bring up any injury concerns during the telecast.
In the loss, Manning was 17-for-30 passing for 170 yards with one touchdown and one interception. At times, Ohio State’s defense pressured him into uncomfortable situations in the pocket.
Benkert, who also played with the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons in his career, is the founder of The Dime Lab. According to its website, The Dime Lab is an extension of Benkert’s vision.
“Kurt’s mission was simple – create a premium football with instant grip, durability, and comfort,” the website states. “After dozens of prototypes, we built the ultimate ball with DimeTack™ Technology – tacky from day one, soft on the hands, and ready to perform in all conditions.”
It will be interesting to see if the Longhorns staff releases any updates on Sunday or later in the week regarding Manning’s potential injury.
