Austin, Texas — Off-season training activities (OTAs) are approaching swiftly as college football teams gear up for another season amid a lingering focus on the NFL Draft. One athlete drawing significant attention is Arch Manning, a promising quarterback poised to take the reins as a full-time starter at the University of Texas. However, the excitement surrounding him has sparked a debate about managing expectations for the young signal-caller.
Currently entering his redshirt sophomore year, Manning’s background adds to the intrigue. He is certainly not just any player; he comes from a storied lineage, with a grandfather who was selected as the second overall pick in the draft, and two uncles who were first-round selections. Last season, Manning played in ten games, starting two, completing 61 of 90 passes for 939 yards, tossing nine touchdowns against two interceptions. He also showcased his mobility, rushing for four touchdowns, including a highlight 67-yard run against UTSA.
While Manning’s pedigree excites fans and NFL scouts alike, it’s essential to temper that enthusiasm. Many were similarly optimistic about Quinn Ewers, whom Manning is succeeding, but he ultimately was picked in the seventh round. Scouts emphasize the need for a larger body of work before making any definitive projections about Manning’s future in the NFL. “A quarterback needs multiple starts to evaluate effectively,” remarked an AFC scouting director. Undoubtedly, Manning’s lack of extensive playing time raises questions about his readiness to face the rigors of professional football.
The concerns are valid; for quarterbacks, experience is paramount. Scouts advocate for at least 25 starts at the collegiate level for a comprehensive assessment. Given that Manning will be well below that threshold even after this season, many experts believe caution is warranted in terms of projecting his NFL draft stock. There are valid arguments against rushing to label him as a future franchise quarterback, despite his promising athleticism and respectable performance so far.
Manning’s off-field demeanor and leadership qualities contribute positively to his evaluation. Within the Longhorns’ program, he’s regarded as confident and down-to-earth, forming strong connections with his teammates. Coaches have noted his sound mechanics and impressive pocket presence, which echo the skills of his family predecessors.
Reflecting on the history of his family, expectations that he will stay in college longer before making the jump to the pros seem reasonable. Both Peyton and Eli Manning chose to prolong their collegiate careers despite high prospects of being top draft picks, suggesting Arch Manning might follow suit. His father’s low-profile approach during Manning’s recruitment further suggests a commitment to a grounded development path.
Transitioning to the NFL Draft itself, the Atlanta Falcons made headlines by trading their first-round pick in 2026 to select Tennessee defensive end James Pearce Jr. This decision came after they were impressed by Pearce in interviews during the combine. The Falcons’ scouting efforts included a commitment to gathering more information about Pearce’s character, which had previously raised some flags.
Likewise, the Falcons seized the opportunity to draft linebacker Jalon Walker when he unexpectedly fell later in the first round. Walker demonstrated considerable potential during his time at Georgia, and his selection complimented Pearce’s addition, addressing the Falcons’ needs on defense.
As teams finalize their draft strategies, the landscape of player movement continues to evolve. For instance, discussions around the Atlanta Falcons’ relationship with quarterback Kirk Cousins have intensified. With the passing of the draft, Cousins remains on the roster, raising questions about his future with the team. Current circumstances suggest limited opportunities for him to find a new team, leaving the Falcons with a costly backup option.
In other league news, the Washington Commanders are set to debut their new stadium, generating considerable excitement in D.C. This development is anticipated to bring significant events, including a possible Super Bowl by 2032. However, the decision to construct a dome has drawn mixed reactions, as many fans desire open-air experiences.
Amid ongoing developments, the NFL continues to tackle issues such as enforcement of player conduct. This week, disciplinary actions were announced against the Falcons after an incident involving prank calls to draftees, highlighting the complexities teams must navigate in maintaining professionalism.
Looking ahead, one thing is clear: as offseason activities ramp up, both collegiate and NFL teams are preparing to make crucial decisions. The future of players like Arch Manning and franchises such as the Falcons will undoubtedly attract ongoing scrutiny as they aim to turn potential into performance.