Texas QB Arch Manning Confirms 2025 Return, Spurns Early NFL Draft Entry

Arch Manning is staying in Austin. The Texas Longhorns quarterback will return for the 2025 season. His father, Cooper Manning, confirmed the decision this week. The news ends immediate speculation about Manning entering the NFL draft.

The highly anticipated quarterback will lead Texas for his redshirt junior year. According to ESPN, Cooper Manning shared the news in a text message. The choice provides major stability for the Longhorns’ program.

Manning’s Decision Solidifies Texas as Title Contender

Manning’s return is a massive win for head coach Steve Sarkisian. It ensures the offense will be led by a seasoned, high-profile starter. The team can now build its entire 2025 strategy around his proven skills.

The quarterback took over as the full-time starter this season. He succeeded Quinn Ewers, who was drafted by the Miami Dolphins. Manning’s development throughout the year showed significant growth and clutch performance.

His season had early challenges against top teams like Ohio State. However, he found his stride in a dominant win over Oklahoma. That victory showcased his Heisman-level potential and leadership.

Building on a Breakout Season for 2025

Manning’s return instantly makes Texas a preseason favorite. The team will aim for a College Football Playoff berth next year. His experience and improved chemistry with receivers will be a huge asset.

The decision also impacts the 2026 NFL draft landscape. Manning will now be part of that highly touted quarterback class. Another year of development could significantly boost his professional stock.

For Longhorns fans, this is the best possible offseason news. It guarantees another year of watching a legacy quarterback mature. The focus now shifts to his final game this season and the high hopes for next fall.

Arch Manning’s return for the 2025 season cements Texas’s status as a national powerhouse. His leadership and talent will be the cornerstone of the Longhorns’ championship ambitions next year.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Did Arch Manning declare for the NFL draft?

No, he did not. Arch Manning has confirmed he will return to the University of Texas for the 2025 season. His father communicated this decision to ESPN.

Q2: What year will Arch Manning be at Texas next season?

He will be a redshirt junior in 2025. This will be his second full season as the Longhorns’ starting quarterback, following his takeover from Quinn Ewers.

Q3: How did Manning perform in his first year as starter?

He showed considerable growth, leading key wins over rivals Oklahoma and Texas A&M. After some early-season adjustments, his performance solidified, positioning him as a top 2025 Heisman candidate.

Q4: Why is his return so important for Texas?

It provides elite stability and leadership for a program with championship goals. Manning’s experience and talent raise the team’s ceiling and make them an immediate preseason playoff contender.

Q5: Who confirmed the news of his return?

The news was confirmed by his father, Cooper Manning. He sent a text message to ESPN stating, “Arch is playing football at Texas next year.”

Trusted Sources

ESPN