Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning is just beginning to carve out his college football legacy, with three years of NCAA eligibility still ahead of him. However, his famous grandfather, Archie Manning, already has his sights set on where he’d like to see Arch land when his NFL career begins.
Archie, the patriarch of football’s first family and a former NFL quarterback himself, was recently asked by a fan which team he hopes Arch will join in the pros. His answer, captured in a video shared on social media, made headlines.
“I hope he’ll play [the next] three years at Texas,” the 75-year-old Manning began before adding with a smile, “It’s funny, nobody’s ever asked me that. Right off the bat, if somebody asked me, I’d say Cowboys.”
A Match Made in Texas?
Archie’s response sparked excitement and speculation, as the idea of Arch playing for the Dallas Cowboys—one of the NFL’s most storied franchises—would undoubtedly be a dream scenario for many Texas football fans. Not only would it keep Arch in the Lone Star State, but it would also align him with a franchise that has long sought a dynamic young quarterback to return them to championship glory.
While the Cowboys are currently led by veteran QB Dak Prescott, by the time Arch is NFL-ready, the team may be looking for its next leader under center. Archie’s remark adds a layer of intrigue to Arch’s already closely watched football journey.
A History of Manning Influence
Archie Manning’s preference for the Cowboys carries weight, considering his history of steering family football decisions. Back in 2004, he famously influenced his son Eli’s career by orchestrating a trade to the New York Giants after Eli was drafted by the San Diego Chargers. The move paid off, with Eli leading the Giants to two Super Bowl victories and cementing his place in NFL history.
If Archie sees the Cowboys as the ideal destination for Arch, there’s little doubt he’ll be vocal about it when the time comes.
The Present Focus: Texas and the SEC
For now, Arch’s attention remains firmly on his college career with the Texas Longhorns. After a year of development behind starting quarterback Quinn Ewers, Arch is poised to make a significant impact in the seasons to come. The Longhorns, currently ranked among the nation’s best, are gearing up for a high-stakes SEC Championship game against the Georgia Bulldogs on Saturday in Atlanta.
The matchup promises to be a thrilling test for Texas as they navigate their first year in the SEC, with Arch waiting in the wings as the program’s future centerpiece.
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The Road Ahead
While the NFL is still years away for Arch Manning, his every move is closely followed by fans and analysts alike. As the grandson of Archie and the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli, Arch carries the weight of monumental expectations. Yet, with a strong foundation in place at Texas and a family legacy to guide him, his future looks exceptionally bright.
Whether Arch ultimately suits up for the Cowboys or another NFL franchise, one thing is certain: the Manning family will continue to leave an indelible mark on the sport.
For now, fans can only imagine the possibility of Arch wearing the iconic silver and blue in Dallas. As Archie put it, “Wouldn’t that be something?”
