Arch Manning is projected to be in the starting lineup for the Texas Longhorns after spending two seasons behind Quinn Ewers. He did not request a transfer like many others in his position. He stayed in Texas and waited patiently for his chance.
Manning will lead a top-ranked team with eyes on a playoff run. NFL scouts are watching closely, and draft talk is building, but Manning says he is not focused on that. He does not care what others think.
Arch Manning Tunes Out External Pressure, Focuses Solely on Football
Arch Manning made it clear during a recent appearance at the Manning Passing Academy that he’s not distracted by the noise surrounding him. The 21-year-old quarterback, poised to start after backing up Ewers for two years, emphasized that he does not worry about public opinion.
“I’m not worried about what other people think,” Manning said in a video shared on the On Texas Football YouTube channel.
He dismisses the mounting NFL Draft buzz and outside expectations, saying he chooses to listen only to a trusted circle that includes his coaches, his parents, and a handful of close friends who provide honest feedback.
As Texas enters the new season as a playoff contender and Manning carries the weight of a famous football name, the spotlight is intense. Still, his approach is to block out distractions and focus on leading the Longhorns in his own style.
Manning’s mindset centers on keeping a small support group close and tuning out everything else. The external chatter holds no sway over how he prepares or plays.
Stepping into his first season as the Longhorns’ starter, Manning faces high expectations. Texas is transitioning to the SEC with a strong roster and hopes of competing for a playoff spot. Despite early NFL Draft talk, he isn’t chasing comparisons or trying to prove anything to critics.
“I’m just going to go out there, have fun and play my game,” he said.
This calm and focused attitude provides Texas with a steady presence at the team’s most critical position. The program, which hasn’t won a national championship since 2005, now looks to Manning to change that narrative.
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Last season, Manning appeared in 10 games and made the most of his opportunities. He completed 61 of 90 passes for 939 yards, threw nine touchdowns, and had two interceptions. On the ground, he added 108 rushing yards and scored four times, showing signs of his dual-threat potential.
His standout performance came against Mississippi State, where he stepped in for an injured Quinn Ewers. Manning delivered an efficient display, completing 26 of 31 passes for 325 yards and two touchdowns without turnovers. He also rushed for 33 yards and scored once, leading Texas to a decisive victory and providing a preview of what he can offer as the full-time starter.
