The hype around Texas quarterback Arch Manning was at an all-time high heading into the 2025 college football season. Lots of New Orleans Saints fans are fully bought into Manning returning home to New Orleans. He was already being viewed as a top draft pick despite only starting two games in 2024. Unfortunately for him, his season got off to a shaky start in Texas’ 7-14 loss to Ohio State.
Manning ended the game completing 17/30 for 170 yards and one touchdown. He also added 38 yards on the ground. These stats sound fine, but they don’t tell the whole story. Manning struggled with accuracy. He was sailing balls and throwing them well behind his receivers.
In addition to this, his fundamentals were not up to the Manning par. His footwork was sloppy, especially when under pressure. This didn’t give him a good base, resulting in less velocity and inaccurate passes. He needs to fix this up.
The game wasn't all bad for Manning
Luckily for Manning, it wasn’t all bad. He had flashes that showed his potential. He threw a 32 yard touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter that was perfectly placed where only his receiver could get it. Manning also showed a lot of promise running the ball.
Manning’s disappointing game isn’t entirely on him. He was a young quarterback travelling to Ohio State in his third ever start. His last name may be Manning but that is still beyond challenging for any quarterback. His exceptions were way too lofty ahead of the year. However, that doesn’t mean he can’t develop to meet them.
Manning is still an elite prospect for the 2026 draft and beyond. He may have hurt his immediate draft stock, but he still has plenty of time to bring it back. It’s important to remember that we’re still in week one. There is still plenty of time to improve this season. Manning also doesn’t have to declare this year. He is perfectly fine waiting until a future year to head to the NFL.
Why Arch Manning not declaring could help the Saints
Many fans have already sold themselves on the idea of Manning first overall to New Orleans in the 2026 draft. This is still possible, but a lot more unlikely now. Honestly, that might not be a bad thing. If the Saints do want a quarterback at the top of the draft there are still many viable options outside of Manning. But if they don’t love any of them, there is no harm in waiting another year.
This would allow the Saints to continue building their roster in 2025. They don’t want to rush into picking a quarterback and hindering him with a sub-par roster. It may behoove them to give Spencer Rattler or Tyler Shough two years to see if they need another quarterback. If they do, Manning will be right there for the taking.
The main takeaway from Manning’s week one game is that he needs more time to develop. He’s got a great supporting group with his uncles and coaching staff to analyze his game and help him improve. Although he hurt his draft stock, it might not be the worst thing in the world. It also could open up the Saints to providing a better landing spot to him in the future, if they're really sold on that.