Bad timing: Arch Manning falters in NFL audition before top scouts and an interested owner

Arch Manning has long been projected by many as a No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, although he did little to strengthen his case with an underwhelming performance in Texas Longhorns’ 14-7 defeat to the Columbus Buckeyes on Saturday.

Scouts and Browns owner in attendance

To make matters worse for the 21-year-old, more than a dozen NFL scouts were in attendance at Ohio Stadium, according to ESPN’s Heather Dinich. Also there, unfortunately for Manning, was Jimmy Haslam, the owner of the Cleveland Browns, who will pick first in the 2026 draft.

They are unlikely to have been impressed by what they saw. Manning’s inconsistent play, especially early in the game, saw him complete only 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards, one touchdown, and an interception.

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian was quick to defend his quarterback after the game, insisting he shouldn’t be judged harshly on one performance. “For Arch, the expectations were out of control on the outside. I’d say let’s finish the book before we judge him. That’s one chapter.”

Pressure mounts for Manning

The NFL’s competitive nature is famously brutal, however, and Manning’s apparent struggles under pressure, even in a single game, won’t have gone unnoticed.

With many already hoping Shedeur Sanders gets the chance to stake a claim as the Browns’ starting quarterback, Manning can’t afford many more slip-ups if he is indeed to be picked first in next year’s draft.

Arch Manning’s draft plans remain uncertain

If he enters, that is. Archie Manning, Arch’s grandfather, recently claimed the Longhorns star would spend two more seasons with Texas, which would see him declare for the 2027 draft. However, many believe he will enter a year early if he performs to his potential this season, which would keep his draft stock high.

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