Robert Griffin III gave his reasoning behind why Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning needed to play another season in college before going into the NFL.

The 22-year-old was a highly touted prospect, with many even predicting that he could be the first overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. However, a lot has changed since the start of the college football season.

Manning has looked underwhelming, and although he has led the Longhorns to an unbeaten 4-0 record, there are a lot of question marks about his abilities as an NFL-level quarterback.

One of the biggest indicators that the QB has struggled this season is the yards-per-throw statistic. His average throughout his time in college has been over 8, but this season it is just over 7.

Griffin compared his final season in college to Manning’s and shared why the Longhorns QB needs another year before going pro.

Robert Griffin III thinks going to the NFL after this season is detrimental to Arch Manning’s growth

Griffin III was in college for three full seasons, but his big year came in 2011 when he won the Heisman Trophy.

He then went into the NFL as the second overall pick and even had a solid rookie season with the Washington Redskins. Having experienced what the transition is like, Griffin revealed that Manning was not ready according to him.

“I don’t think Arch is there yet, I don’t think the game is easy for Arch. When I stepped on the field, the year we won the Heisman, the game was easy… Right now it doesn’t look like that way for Arch,” said Griffin on the Double Coverage podcast.

“For me when I watch Arch play, I see the talent, it’s there. He can play off schedule, he can throw the deep ball but he’s struggling in things that let me know if he goes to the league now it’ll be detrimental to his growth.

“The Mannings have all used all their eligibility, so why not give yourself another opportunity to comeback? Is he the first pick in the draft right now? I don’t think he is… So come back for another year, allow yourself to continue to develop, being the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns like that’s one of the most prestigious opportunities in a lifetime.”

This is just Manning’s second full season as a starting QB. He definitely could use another season to add more games under his belt as a starter as that will benefit him greatly when he goes into the NFL.

So far, Manning has thrown for 862 yards and has a 63.5% completion rate, which may not impress many NFL scouts. Currently, there are glimpses of a star, but he still needs to add consistency in his throwing and show the world that he can be a dual-threat quarterback.