Cooper Manning has openly discussed the intentional pace of his son Arch Manning’s development at Texas, making clear that “just because you play immediately doesn’t mean that’s the right time.” That philosophy shaped Arch’s path, as the highly rated quarterback spent two seasons learning before earning the starting job.
Entering the 2025 campaign, Arch is poised to lead the Longhorns into a high-stakes opener at Ohio State. With a five-star pedigree and national attention, the junior is widely expected to contend for the Heisman Trophy this fall.
Cooper Manning Gets Real About Son Arch’s Development at Texas
Arch Manning’s path at Texas has been deliberate and measured, shaped by patience rather than urgency. Arch, the nephew of Super Bowl champions Peyton and Eli Manning and grandson of NFL veteran Archie Manning, saw limited action in his first two seasons with the Longhorns, starting just two games. In 2024, he played in 10 contests, primarily contributing as a mobile quarterback, rushing for 108 yards and four touchdowns.
Cooper Manning emphasized that development, not immediate playtime, drove Arch’s college decision.
“When Coach Sark was recruiting Arch, he talked about the big picture,” Cooper told On3. “Developing him, doing it right, taking your time. Just because you get in and play immediately doesn’t mean that’s the right time. Sitting there learning, it’s frustrating at times. That’s not necessarily the best thing.”
#Texas QB Arch Manning throwing the dig.
Followed by OU QB John Mateer on the same route. pic.twitter.com/69ZD7kH5MF
— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_OTF) June 28, 2025
Arch’s recruitment came down to Texas, Alabama, and Georgia, but the quarterback prioritized long-term growth. He chose Austin for its coaching stability and offensive system under Steve Sarkisian, who helped Mac Jones shine at Alabama in 2020.
“Just his track record with quarterbacks, he came off a really good year in 2020 with Mac Jones at Alabama,” Arch said. “They lit it up. I like him as a person. I liked Austin, liked Texas, so it was just the right fit. He’s hard on me sometimes, but I deserve it a lot of the time.”
When Quinn Ewers returned for the 2024 season, Manning had the option to transfer but stayed put, confident in his development. Now entering his third year in Sarkisian’s system, the redshirt sophomore is ready to lead Texas as the full-time starter.
Last season, he threw for 939 yards, completing 61 of 90 attempts, while recording nine touchdowns and just two interceptions. His efficiency stood out, finishing with a 67.8 percent completion rate and a QBR of 87.5. In his two starts, Texas dominated, winning by a combined score of 86-16.
RELATED: ‘He Doesn’t Even Have Braces Yet’ — Father Cooper Reveals Why He Shut Down Early Scholarship Talk for Arch Manning
The Longhorns are chasing their first national championship since 2005, and Arch will be at the forefront of that effort. While competition remains in the quarterback room with redshirt senior Matthew Caldwell, sophomore Trey Owens, and freshman K.J. Lacey, all eyes are on Manning.