What's Happening?
Arch Manning, the quarterback for Texas, did not receive any votes in a recent poll conducted among 25 anonymous NFL scouts and executives regarding the top quarterback prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft.
The poll results showed Indiana's Fernando Mendoza leading with 13 votes, followed by Oregon's Dante Moore and Alabama's Ty Simpson. Manning, who was once considered a favorite for the Heisman Trophy and a likely top draft pick, has seen his stock fall despite a strong football pedigree as the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning. This season, Manning has completed 62.7% of his passes for 2,123 yards, 18 touchdowns, and six interceptions, while also rushing for 203 yards and six touchdowns. However, Texas, which started the season ranked No. 1, is now 11th in the College Football Playoff rankings with a 7-2 record.
Why It's Important?
The lack of votes for Arch Manning as a top quarterback prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft is significant as it reflects a shift in perception about his potential at the professional level. Manning's performance this season has not met the high expectations set by his family's legacy and his early career promise. This development could impact his draft position and future career trajectory. For Texas, Manning's performance is crucial as they face a challenging schedule ahead, which could determine their standing in the College Football Playoff rankings. The outcome of these games may also influence Manning's decision to declare for the draft or return for another collegiate season to improve his draft stock.
What's Next?
Texas faces a tough end to the regular season with games against No. 5 Georgia and No. 3 Texas A&M. Manning's performance in these high-stakes games could alter the current narrative and potentially boost his draft prospects. A strong finish could also help Texas secure a spot in the College Football Playoff, which would be a significant achievement for the team and Manning. Scouts and executives will be closely watching these games to reassess Manning's capabilities and potential as a top NFL prospect.
