The Texas Longhorns are gearing up for Arch Manning to take over as starting quarterback in 2025, but not everyone sees him as the top NFL prospect in his class. On a recent episode of The Joel Klatt Show, analyst Joel Klatt ranked Ohio State safety Caleb Downs above Manning for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Manning, who served as Quinn Ewers’ backup in 2024, appeared in 10 games and made two starts after Ewers suffered a torn oblique early in the season. When Ewers briefly returned against UTSA and then re-injured himself, Manning stepped in and led Texas to victories over UL Monroe and Mississippi State.
In those appearances, Manning threw for 939 yards with nine touchdowns and two interceptions, adding 108 rushing yards and four scores on the ground. Despite his limited starting experience, he is widely expected to lead the Longhorns in 2025, following Ewers’ move to the NFL.
While Klatt acknowledged Manning’s talent, he placed him second on his draft board, behind Downs. “Arch Manning would be my No. 2,” Klatt said. “He’s only had two starts, and I think he’ll need more time on the field, so he’ll probably stay in Austin another year.” At the top of his list, Klatt named Downs, calling him the best defensive player in college football.
Manning, the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2023 class according to On3’s Industry Rankings, is poised to make his full-time debut as a starter when Texas opens the 2025 season against none other than Caleb Downs and Ohio State on August 30.
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