ESPN analyst makes bold prediction about Arch Manning and the 2025 NFL Draft

Jeff Hauser

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ESPN analyst makes bold prediction about Arch Manning and the 2025 NFL Draft image

ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky believes Arch Manning would be the “runaway No. 1 pick” if the Texas quarterback were to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft. A statement that shows how highly NFL evaluators already view the former five-star recruit.

Orlovsky’s assessment on the Dan Patrick Show places Manning ahead of an impressive quarterback class that includes Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, as well as Dante Moore and Ty Simpson, all of whom led their teams to the College Football Playoff this season. Manning’s combination of size, arm talent, mobility and processing makes him a clear-cut top choice despite having fewer collegiate starts. 

Manning, however, will not be entering the 2026 draft. His father, Cooper Manning, confirmed to ESPN in December that his son will return to Texas, aiming to further refine his game and position himself as the consensus top pick for the 2027 NFL draft.

During a media event ahead of the Citrus Bowl, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said another year of college football would benefit Manning’s development.

“He’s gotten better as the season’s gone on, not only physically, but mentally,” Sarkisian said.

Manning finished the season with 3,163 passing yards, 26 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 13 games, adding 399 rushing yards and 10 scores on the ground. The numbers reflected steady growth and versatility for a 10-3 Texas team that closed the season with a Citrus Bowl win over Michigan. 

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