Arch Manning family tree: How Texas QB is related to Vols legend Peyton Manning

Manning 's first full season as Texas' starting quarterback last season came with a ton of hype and, arguably, impossible-to-achieve expectations.

The resulting up-and-down season ended on a momentum-building note heading into 2026, as he led the Longhorns to a 7-1 record, including a bowl win, in their final eight games. He threw for over 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns in that span.

Now, in Year 2 , the Longhorn quarterback once again has high expectations surrounding his name: He is a contender not only for the Heisman Trophy , but also the top overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft. If anything, it shouldn't be anything new for the 6-4 quarterback, who has dealt with such expectations for much of his playing career — given the fact he's a member of football's most well-known families.