Steve Sarkisian addresses Arch Manning's future at Texas for 2026: 'I feel pretty good about it'

Texas saw itself get all but eliminated from the College Football Playoff due to Tuesday’s rankings. Head coach Steve Sarkisian now turns his attention to next year’s roster, where some decisions need to be made across the board. One of those might be quarterback Arch Manning, who is eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Sarkisian was asked about Manning potentially leaving Texas this offseason. While he joked about not having a direct conversation with Manning, Sarkisian says he has a solid feel for the situation.

“I haven’t asked him,” Sarkisian said while laughing via On3 | Rivals’ Inside Texas. “I feel pretty good about it.”

Manning just wrapped up his first regular season as the starting quarterback. He projects to be in the same position in whatever bowl game Texas winds up playing as well. Based on Sarkisian’s words, we can expect Manning to run out for next year’s season opener against Texas State in Austin.

In 12 games played throughout 2025, Manning threw for 2,942 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. A rocky start in Columbus proved to be the lowest point of the season, slowly showing progression. The switch seemingly flipped on in the fourth quarter of the Mississippi State game as he performed well from that point on.

Texas was not afraid to use Manning’s legs when needed, either. He rushed for 244 yards, which includes sacks taken. However, the eight touchdowns tell a better story of how effective Manning was, especially deep in the red zone. Not usually an element in Sarkisian’s playbook but something he called upon at times.

More on Arch Manning, time at Texas thus far

Manning came to the 40 Acres as one of the more hyped recruits of all time. He was a Five-Star Plus+ prospect out of New Orleans (LA) Isidore Newman. The Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies, had Manning as the No. 1 player in the 2023 recruiting class.

A quick transition was made from recruit to a highly discussed backup quarterback. Manning spent two seasons behind Quinn Ewers, watching Texas make the CFP on both occasions.

The time for Manning to start came once Ewers left for the 2025 NFL Draft. And apparently, one year is not going to be enough. Although Manning has yet to come out and say it himself, Sarkisian is confident No. 16 will be back in Austin.