All off-season long, there was a lot of chatter about Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning being a Heisman Trophy frontrunner and a potential number one pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, through the first five weeks of the 2025 season, Manning has been the weak link for the Longhorns.

Texas currently holds a 3-2 record and faces the real possibility of missing the playoffs after qualifying the last two seasons. Their most recent setback came on the road against the Florida Gators, where they lost 29-21. Coming into the game ranked ninth nationally, the Longhorns have since dropped out of the rankings entirely.

Manning and the Texas offense have struggled to find cohesion all season. Many college football fans believe he is overrated and that he has fallen short of expectations. So far, Manning has completed 60.0% of his passes for 1,151 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions. On the ground, he has rushed for 160 yards on 43 carries with five touchdowns, averaging 3.7 yards per carry.

Through these first five games, Manning’s performance has not resembled that of a Heisman Trophy candidate or a projected 2026 first-round NFL Draft pick. After another disappointing showing against the Gators, some fans question the hype surrounding him altogether.

With so much uncertainty around the quarterback position, questions abound: If the Longhorns miss the playoffs and Arch continues to struggle, will he return for the 2026 season? Could he declare for the NFL Draft regardless, or might he enter the transfer portal?

At this point, Manning is not in danger of losing his starting job unless he suffers an injury before the season ends. However, this campaign has been a disappointment for head coach Steve Sarkisian and the entire Texas football program.

Many college football fans have noted that Manning does not yet live up to the legacy of his uncles, Eli and Peyton Manning. Only time will tell if he can turn his season around and fulfill the high expectations placed on him.

More NCAAF news coming soon.
https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/texas/news/college-football-fans-believe-longhorns-qb-arch-manning-overrated/f6df83d208d581267c701b7d