NFL and Ole Miss legend Archie Manning said his grandson, Arch Manning, isn’t leaving for the NFL next year. He recently made the comment to Texas Monthly.
“Arch isn’t going to do that. He’ll be at Texas,” the patriarch of football’s first family said.
NEW: Archie Manning predicts grandson Arch will not declare for 2026 NFL Draft:
— On3 (@On3sports) August 7, 2025
"Arch isn’t going to do that. He’ll be at Texas."
(via @TexasMonthly)https://t.co/hawuy5yH43 pic.twitter.com/EjzDo7vv3E
This isn’t a surprise for multiple reasons. To begin with, 2025 will be his first season as a starter.
The Manning Way
The Manning family, including grandfather Archie and uncles Peyton and Eli, has historically emphasized the value of extended college experience. With both Peyton and Eli playing four years at their respective schools before becoming No. 1 overall NFL draft picks, this mindset is echoed in Archie’s recent statement that Arch will remain at Texas beyond 2025. Prioritizing development over an early leap to the NFL.
The challenges of one-year college starters in the NFL has been well documented. Historically, entering the NFL Draft after just one season as a college starter has been rare. Especially for top picks. While some quarterbacks have succeeded, many have struggled due to their limited experience at the highest level of college football.
College Money
The advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) further incentivizes Arch to remain in college beyond a single season as a starter. With an estimated NIL valuation of $3.1 million, Arch is among the highest-earning college athletes, benefiting from lucrative endorsement deals with brands like Panini and EA Sports. This financial windfall, coupled with the ability to build his brand in the high-profile Texas program reduces the urgency to enter the NFL early. Rookie contracts do not have immediate massive financial gains.
More Sports News
NEW: Texas QB Arch Manning has signed an NIL deal with Red Bull🤘
— On3 (@On3sports) January 30, 2025
Manning boasts a $6.6M On3 NIL Valuation👀
(via @redbull) https://t.co/SFpO2NCI9D pic.twitter.com/bftXB7mCJ0
Staying at Texas allows Arch to capitalize on his marketability. In a college market where he faces less competition for endorsements compared to the NFL’s saturated professional landscape. Moreover, the stability of NIL income enables him to focus on honing his skills without the financial pressure to turn pro, which aligns with his family’s philosophy of prioritizing long-term development over short-term professional gains.
Furthermore, the 2025 season hasn’t started yet, and Texas will be focused on living up to its preseason No. 1 ranking.
With the financial security of NIL deals and a family legacy that values mastering a system, staying longer at Texas to refine his skills under head coach Steve Sarkisian and boost his draft stock makes more sense than rushing to the pros after 2025.
All eyes will be on Arch and the Texas Longhorns this season. Both are iconic brands in college football. Together, they create an electrifying combination. Their partnership promises to deliver thrilling moments on the field, and fans can expect a captivating season filled with high stakes and unforgettable plays.
The Longhorns kick off their season on the road against Ohio State at noon on Aug. 30.
