The 2025 NFL draft class is considered to be below average. It’s a group largely devoid of true blue-chip prospects and is thinnest, perhaps, at the game’s most celebrated position - quarterback. The same is unlikely to be said about the projected 2027 draft class.

The buzz around Texas quarterback Arch Manning has only grown louder as the NFL Combine gets underway. While teams prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, some already have their eyes on the 2026 class- one that could be headlined by Manning.

With Quinn Ewers eyeing an NFL career, it’s Manning’s time to stand out at Texas. And his former teammates believe he is ready for it.

When is Arch Manning eligible for the NFL draft? The former No. 1 recruit is expected to be among the top quarterbacks available when it's his turn:

Arch Manning quickly endeared himself to fans of the Texas Longhorns in 2024 as the former top recruit tallied seven total touchdowns in a pair of early-season wins. However, one summer prior, Manning earned the love of his teammates.

The former No. 1 overall recruit (2023) is the grandson of New Orleans Saints legend Archie Manning, and nephew of Super Bowl -winning quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Eli Manning. Although the noise around him grew louder by the day, Ewers was still able to push through and deliver.