Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning has generated significant discussion about his future. Manning is projected to take over as the starting quarterback in 2025, with many analysts already predicting he’ll be the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Manning started several games in 2024 when Quinn Ewers was injured, creating excitement among fans eager to see him as the full-time starter.
Not everyone shares this enthusiasm, however.
Former Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray expressed skepticism during a recent College Sports XM Radio segment.
“I am not sold, like so many of the other people are, that this guy is going to be the number one pick in NFL draft, that he’s going to just be unbelievable, that he’s going to be the next coming of Peyton and Eli,” Murray said. “I was a big fan of Quinn Ewers heading into the season. I thought Quinn did some good stuff at times last season, but let’s be honest, Texas had probably the second or third best roster in America. Why were they not competing for a national championship? It was because Quinn was holding them back. Quinn did not perform to the level that I thought he could, and then you see now in the NFL Draft he gets drafted in the seventh round?”
Murray questioned why Manning couldn’t win the starting job if he’s truly elite.
“So all in all, Quinn Ewers had a disappointing season, and it reflected in his draft stock. If you are so good and everyone has you projected number one pick in the NFL Draft, come 2026, why in the hell are you not playing above a seventh-round quarterback?” Murray continued. “What was holding them back? Quinn Ewers. Why was Arch not playing? It’s like that rubs me the wrong way a little bit.”
The Miami Dolphins selected Ewers in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.
Murray acknowledged Manning’s potential but remains unconvinced about his draft status.
“And I’m never going to talk bad about a quarterback, because I know how difficult it is. I’m cheering for him like I cheer for every quarterback. I want them all to have success, but I need to see it first. I’m not going to crown you this All-American superstar,” Murray said.
Manning threw for 939 yards with nine touchdowns and two interceptions in 2024. His strongest performance came against UTSA.
While many analysts continue to project Manning as a future star, Murray’s comments highlight the divide between the quarterback’s current resume and the lofty expectations surrounding him.
