Steve Sarkisian Hints Arch Manning's Future at Texas Remains Wide Open
Going into his second year as the starter, there aren't a lot of people facing more pressure than Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning. He had some ups and downs last year, throwing for 3,163 yards, 26 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He also rushed for 399 yards and 10 touchdowns.
While his numbers were solid, it wasn't the Heisman-level performance many expected from the former five-star recruit.
Now going into his fourth season with the Longhorns, Manning is still viewed as one of the top prospects before the 2027 NFL Draft. ESPN's Matt Miller and Jordan Reid both list him as the No. 1 quarterback.
However, the draft isn't his only option after this season. During an appearance on "Up & Adams," Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian revealed that not everyone should dismiss the idea of Manning returning to Texas for the 2027 season.
"You know, we haven't had the discussion, but I will tell you, I would not be surprised," Sarkisian said. "I think Arch really loves college football, I really do. I think he loves the University of Texas, you know, he does pretty good through NIL, you know, he's got some pretty good endorsements going right now, which is a credit to him. And obviously, the lineage of the last name and the brand of the University of Texas, all those things coming together, but again, on the same token, I won't be surprised if he declares and decides to go to the draft."
"I wouldn't be surprised."
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) June 15, 2026
Steve Sarkisian on Arch Manning potentially returning to the Longhorns after the 2026 season@heykayadams | @TexasFootballpic.twitter.com/YfLx192DEH
Sarkisian added that much of Manning's decision could fall to not only the quarterback's individual numbers but also how the Longhorns perform as a team. Texas is currently tied for the third-best odds (+750) to win the national championship, according to DraftKings.
The deadline to declare for the NFL draft typically falls around the middle of January. With plenty of time to make a decision, how the 2026 college football season plays out may ultimately decide what Manning does.
Related: Georgia Football Loses 4-Star Recruiting Battle to SEC Rival
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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 10:21 AM.