Arch Manning, the talented young quarterback, recently made headlines with his decision to join the University of Texas, a choice that followed a highly publicized recruitment process.
The Legacy of the Manning Family
Coming from a family deeply rooted in football, Arch Manning has impressive lineage. His uncles, Peyton and Eli Manning, along with his grandfather Archie, all showcased their skills at Southeastern Conference (SEC) schools prior to their successful NFL careers. Interestingly, Texas became part of the SEC this year, adding another layer to Arch’s journey in college football.
Limited but Impactful Freshman Year
During his freshman year at Texas, Arch Manning had limited opportunities to shine. However, this season marked a turning point as he stepped into a starting role following an injury to fellow quarterback Quinn Ewers. The 19-year-old Manning is not eligible for the NFL Draft until 2025, but his grandfather, Archie Manning, has already contemplated potential landing spots for him in the professional arena.
Archie’s Wish for His Grandson
While Archie Manning expressed a desire for Arch to remain in college for a few more years, he also shared a preference for his grandson to don the iconic Dallas Cowboys uniform. In a light-hearted TikTok video shared on December 6, Archie stated, “Nobody’s ever asked me that. Right off the bat, if somebody asked me, I’d say Cowboys,” while smiling.
Influencing the Draft Process
Although Archie doesn’t have direct control over where Arch Manning might land in the NFL draft, he has played a significant role in influencing decisions within the family. A notable example occurred in 2004 when Eli Manning was initially drafted by the San Diego Chargers. The Manning family, including Archie, advised against the pick, leading to Eli being traded to the New York Giants—a decision that many believe was influenced by family wishes.
The Cowboys’ Struggles and Fame
Despite the Dallas Cowboys not making it to a conference championship game since the 1995 season, they remain one of the most high-profile franchises in the league. This historical significance may make the prospect of Arch Manning playing for them even more appealing to fans and family alike.
Arch Manning’s Performance This Season
In his current season with Texas, Arch Manning has thrown for 939 yards, contributing to nine touchdowns and only two interceptions across seven games. Additionally, he has displayed his athleticism by rushing for 95 yards and scoring four touchdowns on the ground in 2024. Notably, he had a brief appearance in Texas’ recent 22-19 overtime loss to Georgia in the SEC championship, where he recorded a rushing attempt for five yards.
As the future unfolds, all eyes will be on Arch Manning as he continues to develop his skills and potentially follow in the footsteps of his illustrious family.
