Arch Manning Urged to Transfer by ESPN Analyst Amid Struggles at Texas

Amid growing criticism and uncertainty surrounding his future, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky has advised Texas quarterback Arch Manning to forgo the NFL Draft and transfer to another college program.

Orlovsky expressed his views on ESPN's "First Take," suggesting that Manning's current situation at Texas does not provide the necessary environment for his development as a quarterback. "I do not believe Arch should go to the NFL. I believe Arch should leave Texas and go to a place that can adamantly develop him as a quarterback, that gives you the ability to play quarterback," Orlovsky stated, as reported by Awful Announcing.

The commentary comes as Manning faces increased scrutiny. ESPN reported earlier in the week that backup quarterback KJ Lacey received more first-team reps in practice, raising questions about Manning's starting position for the upcoming game against Ole Miss. Head coach Steve Sarkisian has not indicated if a change will be made.

Manning's statistics this season have shown a decline compared to his previous year. He has thrown for 1,295 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions. In 2025, he recorded 3,163 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.

Texas, which rose to No. 1 in the AP Top 25 rankings after defeating Ohio State, has since fallen to No. 19 following consecutive close losses to Oklahoma and Florida.

The evaluation of quarterback talent for the 2027 NFL Draft is reportedly complex, with some NFL executives expressing skepticism about which top prospects will ultimately declare. A college scouting director described the process as "an absolute s— show," according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero. Manning, once considered a top prospect, has dropped to No. 5 in ESPN's updated quarterback rankings for the 2027 class, behind players like Drew Mestemaker, Darian Mensah, Trinidad Chambliss, and CJ Carr.