Arch Manning shoots down departure speculation
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Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning was projected to have an incredible season in 2025, which would make him the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
These predictions did not come true. Manning had a solid season, leading Texas to nine wins, throwing for 2,942 yards and 32 total touchdowns. He was not a Heisman Trophy finalist and the Longhorns did not make the College Football Playoff.
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Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning throws a pass during the first half against the Texas A&M Aggies at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 28, 2025. (Scott Wachter/Imagn Images)
Manning still faced speculation that he would transfer or enter the draft, but his father Cooper shut that down earlier this month. Ahead of the Citrus Bowl, the quarterback said he had “no reason” to leave Texas.
“I feel like I’ve improved a lot this year, especially towards the back half, and I want to continue that,” he said. “There’s no reason to leave. I feel like I have a lot of football left to play and I’m excited to still be a part of this team.”
NOTRE DAME’S MARCUS FREEMAN CLOSED THE DOOR AFTER NFL ATTENTION AND ANNOUNCED HIS RETURN TO SCHOOL
Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning enters Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium before a game against the Texas A&M Aggies on November 28, 2025. (Scott Wachter/Imagn Images)
If Manning had chosen to drop out of school, it likely would have meant him missing the bowl game against the Michigan Wolverines.
He expressed a desire to play in the Citrus Bowl given his family’s history in the game.
“I was in New Orleans during the holidays and my grandpa (Archie) told me about those games and my dad. It’s great to be a part of that game, especially because (Peyton Manning) played and we’re excited to play a good Michigan team.”
Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks to throw a pass during the first half against the Georgia Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium on November 15, 2025. (Dale Zanine/Imagn Images)
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Manning’s performance in the Citrus Bowl will likely be a key indicator of how far he can take his game heading into 2026. This will likely be his last game in college football.
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