Arch Manning has yet to begin his first season as the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, and yet speculation is already swirling about where he might land in the NFL. A former Heisman Trophy winner raised eyebrows recently by suggesting that one franchise could be willing to tank in order to secure the services of Steve Sarkisian’s star QB.

The debate kicked off after reports surfaced indicating that Daniel Jones will be the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts next season. Robert Griffin III, former Baylor Bears star and 2011 Heisman Trophy winner, believes it’s a strategic move aimed at landing the No. 1 pick in next year’s NFL Draft.

Through his official X account (formerly Twitter), the former Redskins, Browns, and Ravens quarterback was blunt about the Colts’ intentions to position themselves to draft Arch Manning next year.

“I’m convinced that the Indianapolis Colts are trying to tank for Arch Manning,” he stated via @RGIII.

Robert Griffin III speaks onstage at Fanatics Fest NYC 2025.

“Because the plan at QB doesn’t make sense,” the QB went on, referring to the franchise’s decision to name Jones the starter moving forward.

The highly anticipated starting debut for Manning

The spotlight is now squarely on Arch Manning, who is set to take over as the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, succeeding the now-departed Quinn Ewers. Manning’s ascent to the top of the depth chart has been long anticipated, and he’s stepping into a role with immense pressure and even greater expectations.

With a full complement of elite weapons at his disposal, the talented passer is expected to further supercharge an already formidable offense. His command of the huddle and deep-ball accuracy could be the final piece of the puzzle for a team with championship aspirations. The Longhorns’ offense was already dangerous, but with Manning at the helm, it’s poised to become truly terrifying.

A tough start to the season

With all eyes on Arch Manning’s debut as the starting quarterback, here are the first five matchups the Texas Longhorns will face starting from Game 1 in the upcoming NCAAF season:

  • @ Ohio State, August 30
  • vs San Jose State, September 6
  • vs UTEP, September 13
  • vs Sam Houston, September 20
  • @ Florida, October 4