Arch Manning Gets Snubbed in ESPN’s 2025 QB Rankings Despite Draft Buzz

In a surprising move that has stirred heated debate across college football circles, ESPN released its 2025 quarterback rankings without including one of the most talked-about names in the sport—Arch Manning. Despite a strong 2024 campaign with the Texas Longhorns and growing speculation about his NFL Draft stock, the absence of Manning from the elite quarterback list has sparked backlash from fans, analysts, and even some former players.

As a member of football’s most famous family, Arch entered the collegiate spotlight with unprecedented expectations. And though his journey hasn’t always been smooth, many expected 2025 to be his breakout year. So why did ESPN leave him out? Was it justified? Or is this another example of premature judgment in a game where development can’t always be measured on a spreadsheet?

This article takes a deep dive into the snub heard ’round the country—analyzing Manning’s season, the criteria behind ESPN’s rankings, the reactions from the football world, and what it means for his draft hopes going forward.

A Legacy Under Pressure

Arch Manning’s name has been etched into the national consciousness since he first stepped onto a high school field. The grandson of Archie, the nephew of Peyton and Eli, and the son of Cooper Manning, Arch was never going to be just another quarterback. His recruitment was the most watched in recent memory, with elite programs across the country vying for his signature. Ultimately, he chose Texas—a decision that promised to return the Longhorns to national prominence.

After redshirting his freshman year in 2023 and sitting behind Quinn Ewers in 2024, Manning got his first real opportunity to start midway through last season when Ewers went down with an injury. What followed was a stretch of games that showcased both growing pains and flashes of brilliance. He led Texas to wins over ranked opponents, displayed command of Steve Sarkisian’s offense, and proved he could handle the spotlight.

So when the offseason arrived and NFL scouts began compiling early draft boards, Arch’s name began appearing frequently. Some analysts even projected him as a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, assuming continued development. That’s what makes his omission from ESPN’s 2025 quarterback rankings so perplexing.

ESPN’s 2025 QB Rankings: Who Made the Cut?

Released in April, ESPN’s list featured familiar names atop the chart—Caleb Williams’ successor at USC, Penn State’s Drew Allar, Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, and Georgia’s Carson Beck, among others. These players have proven résumés, high-level production, and in some cases, postseason success.

According to ESPN’s panel of analysts, the rankings were based on a combination of statistical output, projected team success, “NFL readiness,” and “intangibles.” In total, 15 quarterbacks were listed. Arch Manning’s name was nowhere to be found.

The explanation? A senior writer for ESPN mentioned that Manning hadn’t played enough meaningful snaps to warrant inclusion and that “while the potential is there, projection is not enough to displace players with full seasons under their belts.”

That reasoning has only added fuel to the fire.

Stats and Context: A Deeper Look at Manning’s 2024 Season

While it’s true Manning did not start the full season, dismissing his performance outright overlooks key details. In six games as a starter, Arch threw for 1,755 yards, 14 touchdowns, and just 4 interceptions. He added 182 yards on the ground and three rushing scores. More importantly, he led Texas to a 5–1 record in those games, including a stunning upset of then-No. 6 Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry.

What made his performances even more impressive was the context. Thrust into action midseason, Manning faced immense pressure, both from expectations and from opposing defenses eager to rattle the young quarterback. Yet he responded with poise, command, and growth week by week. By season’s end, many viewed him as the leader of the Longhorns going forward.

His decision-making improved, his deep ball showed touch and timing, and he exhibited the kind of moxie scouts drool over. Texas fans believed they were witnessing the emergence of a future star. NFL personnel quietly began taking notice.

So while his sample size may be smaller than others, the trajectory was steeply upward—and that’s often more important than raw numbers when evaluating quarterback potential.

The NFL Buzz Is Real

Despite his omission from ESPN’s rankings, the NFL buzz surrounding Arch Manning is very real.

Multiple sources have reported that scouts view Manning as a high-upside prospect, thanks to his mechanics, football IQ, and ability to process defenses quickly. He’s been praised for his work ethic and quiet leadership style—traits reminiscent of his uncles. Some believe a strong 2025 campaign could vault him into Day 1 conversation.

“He’s got the arm talent, he’s got the pedigree, and most importantly, he’s got the temperament,” one anonymous scout told The Athletic. “We’ve seen enough flashes to believe he can be special. But yeah, he’s got to put it all together this year.”

That sentiment reflects the broader draft community. Manning might not be a finished product, but few quarterbacks entering 2025 have more room to grow—or more upside. It’s rare to find a quarterback with NFL tools, elite coaching, and an elite support system around him. Manning checks all those boxes.

Fan and Media Reactions

As expected, social media lit up in the hours following the release of ESPN’s rankings. The phrase “Arch Manning snubbed” trended on X (formerly Twitter), with fans, journalists, and even fellow players chiming in.

Longhorn Nation, predictably, came to their quarterback’s defense.

“He’s better than half the guys on that list, and they know it,” one user posted. “They just didn’t want to deal with the headlines.”

National media figures also weighed in. Paul Finebaum called the omission “disrespectful,” while former NFL quarterback and current analyst Dan Orlovsky tweeted: “Not sure what ESPN is thinking here. Arch has all the tools and has shown he belongs. The film doesn’t lie.”

Former Texas quarterback Colt McCoy also expressed surprise during a local radio interview, saying, “Arch isn’t just a name. He’s a baller. Watch him work this year.”

Clearly, the snub has touched a nerve—not only because of the name involved but because many view it as symbolic of a media narrative that tries to “humble” high-profile athletes before they can fully establish themselves.

A Chip on His Shoulder?

Arch Manning has never been the type to make headlines with his words. He prefers to let his play do the talking. But if there’s one thing sports history has taught us, it’s that snubs like this often fuel the fire.

There’s a quiet confidence to Manning that mirrors his family lineage. Peyton and Eli both dealt with adversity early in their careers, and both used it as motivation. It wouldn’t be surprising if Arch takes this perceived slight personally—and uses it to push himself harder during the offseason.

With the Longhorns returning key offensive weapons, including standout wide receiver Johntay Cook II and a strong offensive line, the stage is set for Manning to deliver a statement season. If that happens, ESPN’s omission could look more like a misfire than a reasoned decision.

What It Means for Texas

For the Texas Longhorns, the ESPN snub could actually be a blessing in disguise.

With pressure mounting for the program to break through nationally after years of “almosts,” having their quarterback play with something to prove might be exactly what’s needed. Steve Sarkisian’s offense has already shown it can produce NFL-caliber talent, and with Manning in full command, the Longhorns could challenge for an SEC title in their first season in the new conference.

Expect the Texas coaching staff to rally around their young quarterback, using the snub as a motivational tool in the locker room. Already one of the most followed players in college football, Arch Manning now has another storyline attached to his name—and a powerful one at that.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Season

All eyes will be on Manning when the 2025 season kicks off. The schedule is loaded, with early matchups against Alabama and LSU providing a chance for marquee performances. Every snap will be dissected, every decision scrutinized.

If he thrives under the spotlight, Manning could flip the narrative and force even his harshest critics to acknowledge his talent. By midseason, he may very well be on ESPN’s Heisman watch list—making his preseason exclusion all the more ironic.

More importantly, he’ll have a chance to solidify himself as a top NFL Draft prospect. With a full season of tape, consistent play, and continued development, there’s no reason why Arch Manning shouldn’t be a first-round pick come 2026.

Whether ESPN’s decision to leave Arch Manning off its 2025 quarterback rankings was a calculated choice based on experience or a glaring oversight based on flawed metrics is up for debate. But what isn’t debatable is the buzz that continues to grow around the Texas quarterback.

The snub has given him something that every elite athlete secretly craves: a reason to prove people wrong.

With his name, talent, and the weight of legacy on his shoulders, Arch Manning is poised for one of the most scrutinized seasons in recent college football memory. And if history is any guide, don’t be surprised if he ends the year not just in the rankings—but at the top of them.