Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is throwing a curveball into the conversation about Arch Manning's future. Despite the former No. 1 recruit being widely projected as a top pick in the 2026 NFL draft, Sarkisian suggests the quarterback could bypass the 2027 NFL draft entirely and remain in Austin for his senior season.
In a recent interview on Kay Adams' show "Up & Adams," Sarkisian revealed that he wouldn't be shocked if Manning decides to stay at Texas beyond this fall. The coach emphasized Manning's deep affection for college football and the University of Texas, as well as his strong NIL earnings, as potential factors in that decision.
"You know, we haven't had the discussion, but I will tell you, I would not be surprised," Sarkisian said. "I think Arch really loves college football, I really do. I think he loves the University of Texas, you know, he does pretty good through NIL, you know, he's got some pretty good endorsements going right now, which is a credit to him."
The coach added that Manning's performance this season and the team's success will play a role. "But I think some of that is dependent upon, you know, how we play as a team this fall, how he plays individually, knock on wood, injury-free football, things like that," he said. "But again, that's not our focus. Our focus is on getting ready for the season."
Manning, who has yet to start a full season for the Longhorns, still has plenty to prove at the college level. He's expected to be one of the nation's top quarterbacks when Texas takes the field this fall, but Sarkisian's comments suggest the timeline for Manning's NFL arrival might not be as set as many assume. The coach's remarks echo the recent debate about Manning's potential versus his performance, with some analysts questioning whether his hype has outpaced his on-field results.
Sarkisian's suggestion also comes amid broader discussions about how college football's changing landscape, including NIL opportunities, is reshaping player decisions. Manning's lucrative endorsement deals, which include partnerships with major brands, could make staying in college financially viable compared to entering the NFL draft.
The Longhorns open their season against Texas State on Sept. 5, a game that will be broadcast on ESPN at 3:30 PM ET. Sarkisian made it clear that his focus remains on preparing for that matchup and the tough schedule ahead, which includes Ohio State and Tennessee. "We haven't really had any dialog about it, but to your point, I wouldn't be surprised," Sarkisian concluded. "He loves college, and again, he's got some pretty good NIL stuff going for himself right now."
If Manning does stay through 2027, it would be a major shift in the narrative surrounding the Manning family legacy. His uncles, Peyton and Eli, both entered the NFL after their junior seasons, but Arch seems to be carving his own path. Sarkisian's comments hint that the quarterback's love for the college game might outweigh the allure of the professional ranks, at least for now.
