Arch Manning’s reputation in college football has taken a real beating through the early stages of the season but he could still end up at one of the top NFL franchises next year.

The 22-year-old quarterback suffered his first defeat at the weekend as the Oklahoma Sooners ended the Texas Longhorns’ unbeaten start to the year. However, the defeat against the Sooners was not the first time Manning has come under scrutiny through the opening five games.

Manning has thrown 10 touchdowns and five interceptions so far this season as a number of people have questioned just how high he could be drafted. There are even some suggesting that another year in college football should not be ruled out.

After so much hype was placed on him over recent years as a result of his family name and physical qualities, Manning is dropping down the mock draft boards just weeks into the 2026 season.

Which NFL teams could take a chance on Arch Manning

On the evidence of this season, Manning is not one of the top quarterbacks in the potential draft class for next year. There are too many questions still hanging over the 22-year-old for him to be picked over players like Drew Mestemaker, Darian Mensah or Trinidad Chambliss.

Falling down the order could actually work in Manning’s favour, though, as he could end up in a better situation than if he was drafted by a team looking for a starting quarterback.

“What if I told you I could guarantee one of three spots: Tampa, Seattle, or Detroit? There is zero chance he plays upon arrival,” said Mel Kiper Jr. on UnSportsManLike.

“Seattle, if they lose tonight [Thursday], is 3-3. I think a lot of it is going to have to do with Sam Darnold not necessarily going to win them the game because of how bad the running game is right now for Seattle. I think he’s going to have to pass against Denver because Denver’s secondary is weak with injuries. I think Sam Darnold, Super Bowl champion, has been unbelievable. Obviously, are they looking to replace him? No. Are they looking to extend him? I don’t know about that one.

“Detroit, if you can get Arch Manning in the first round, feels like an obvious one. Jared Goff’s succession plan seems like a great idea. Those are three franchises that I look at, and I say, what if he could find a way to Tampa, Seattle, or Detroit? Would that satisfy your needs? How do you guarantee”

Given the concerns hanging over Manning, perhaps going into a team and spending some time learning behind the starting quarterback may not be the worst idea. Some may hit back and note that he is already learning from his two uncles who may provide more than someone like Sam Darnold.

However, being in the environment of the NFL team and being able to work in that system day in and day out could prove hugely beneficial for Manning.