Manning Legacy at Saints on Hold as Archie Confirms Grandson’s College Commitment

New Orleans Saints legend Archie Manning has made it clear: his grandson isn’t headed to the NFL anytime soon. “Arch isn’t going to do that. He’ll be at Texas,” Archie told Texas Weekly when asked about speculation surrounding the 2026 NFL Draft.

His firm stance quiets a growing buzz around Arch Manning’s early eligibility and the Saints’ quarterback future. Fans in New Orleans, still nostalgic for the Manning legacy, were hopeful they might see Arch in black and gold next year. But Archie’s comment suggests those hopes are at least one year too early.

Arch Manning Still Developing at Texas

Arch Manning enters the 2025 college football season as the likely starter for the Texas Longhorns. After sitting behind Quinn Ewers and playing limited snaps in 2024, this will be his first full season as QB1.

The former No. 1 recruit has made just two collegiate starts and has thrown fewer than 100 passes in his career. His game reps remain limited, but expectations are high. Manning’s elite pedigree and strong tools keep him on the radar for future first-round status.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated notes that the combination of history and opportunity could make the Saints an intriguing possibility for the young Manning. “If Manning plays well enough to be a lock to be the first pick by the time we get to January, there’s an enticing situation in front of him,” Breer wrote. “I guess it’s possible he could decide to go pro.”

Still, Archie emphasized patience. He said Arch is in a “good situation” and noted the benefits of staying in school to gain more experience.

The Saints Still Need a Long-Term Quarterback

The Saints’ quarterback room is filled with question marks heading into the 2025 season. With Derek Carr gone, the team has a battle between Jake Haener, rookie Tyler Shough, and second-year starter Spencer Rattler.

Unless one of them shows true promise this season, the Saints could once again be searching for a franchise quarterback in 2026.

New Orleans has failed to develop a long-term solution since Drew Brees retired. A revolving door of short-term starters and underwhelming backups has left the team treading water.

That lack of direction keeps fans and analysts wondering if the team is waiting for a chance to take Arch. But Archie’s comment makes that scenario unlikely next year.

The Arch Sweepstakes May Have to Wait

If Arch plays two more years at Texas, he’ll be eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft. That might not align with the Saints’ rebuilding timeline.

Canal Street Chronicles writer Caleb Yaccarino said, “There has always been doubt that Manning would enter in 2026 and forgo another year of development in college.” The elder Manning’s statement only confirms that.

Unless New Orleans finds a true QB1 over the next two seasons, they could be positioned to target Manning in 2027. However, that means Saints fans would likely have to endure two seasons’ worth of bad football in the meantime.

A Legacy on Hold—for Now

The idea of another Manning leading the Saints is tempting. The city’s deep connection to the family would make Arch’s arrival a storybook moment. But Archie’s message is clear: development first, NFL later.

For the Saints, that means continuing their search for a quarterback in the near term. If Arch’s rise continues and the Saints still have a need, the timing could finally line up in 2027.

Until then, the wait for the next Manning era in New Orleans goes on.