Arch Manning Confirms Return to Texas for 2026 Season, Ending NFL Draft Speculation

Key Points

• Arch Manning will return to Texas for the 2026 college football season, his father confirms.
• Head coach Steve Sarkisian says Manning has made major “physical and mental” strides this year.
• Manning posted 2,942 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 8 rushing scores in his first year as starter.
• Texas finished the second half of the season 6–1, pushing late for a College Football Playoff berth.
• His return strengthens Texas’ bid for SEC and national championship contention next season.

Arch Manning Ends Speculation, Commits to Another Year at Texas

Texas quarterback Arch Manning has officially decided to return for the 2026 season, putting to rest months of speculation about whether he would enter the NFL Draft as a redshirt sophomore. His father, Cooper Manning, confirmed the news in a message to ESPN reporter Dave Wilson, saying simply, “Arch is playing football at Texas next year.”

The announcement aligns with expectations inside the Texas program, where coaches anticipated Manning would remain in Austin to continue his development.

Sarkisian Praises Manning’s Growth and “Unfinished Business”

Speaking at a media event in Orlando ahead of the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl—where Texas faces Michigan on December 31—head coach Steve Sarkisian highlighted Manning’s progress throughout the season.

Sarkisian said the young quarterback has improved “both physically and mentally,” adding that another year in college will only strengthen his long-term NFL prospects.

“He’s got some unfinished business of what he came here to do and what he came here to accomplish,” Sarkisian said, noting Manning’s competitive drive and desire to chase SEC and national titles.

A Breakout First Season as Texas’ Starting Quarterback

Manning’s first year as the Longhorns’ starter showed steady growth, particularly in the second half of the season, when Texas went 6–1 and surged back into playoff contention.

His season stats entering the bowl game:

• 227 completions on 370 attempts
• 2,942 passing yards
• 24 passing touchdowns
• 7 interceptions (only 2 in the last seven games)
• 8 rushing touchdowns

The late-season improvement, especially in ball security and decision-making, underscored his rising confidence and command of the offense.

What Manning’s Return Means for Texas

Manning’s decision to stay gives Texas a major boost heading into 2026. With another year of experience, a maturing roster, and momentum from a strong finish, the Longhorns are positioned to make a serious run at SEC and national championship contention.

For Manning, the extra season offers valuable development time as he works toward the lofty goals he set when he joined the program.

What Happens Next?

Texas will close out the year in the Citrus Bowl before shifting focus to offseason preparation. Manning is expected to be the centerpiece of the Longhorns’ 2026 campaign, entering the season as one of college football’s most-watched quarterbacks.