Not Patrick Mahomes: Arch Manning reveals the two NFL quarterbacks he admires most

The Manning dynasty has a new name heading toward the NFL: Arch. The nephew of Eli and Peyton Manning is trying to build a strong career by modeling his game after two current star quarterbacks—but neither of them is Patrick Mahomes.

A couple of years ago, the name Arch Manning began making noise across the football world. His last name is legendary in the NFL, with uncles Eli and Peyton each winning two Super Bowls.

Many fans believe talent runs through Arch’s veins. There’s immense pressure on him as he nears his NFL debut, with expectations already sky-high.

Arch Manning reveals the two NFL quarterbacks he admires most

The 2025 NCAA season appears to be the year Arch Manning finally becomes the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns. With Quinn Ewers now in the NFL with the Dolphins, Arch is expected to step up and lead the offense.

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Given his family legacy, many analysts believe Arch has the potential to become a star like Eli and Peyton. However, he’ll have to prove himself with an outstanding 2025 campaign to convince NFL scouts he’s ready for the next level.

Arch is currently focused on sharpening his skills—not just his arm strength and accuracy, but also his mobility and ability to make plays on the ground.

To shape his game, Manning recently revealed the two NFL quarterbacks he admires most. While many would expect Patrick Mahomes to be on the list, he’s not. Instead, Arch is aiming to emulate Josh Allen and Joe Burrow, both of whom offer a mix of athleticism, toughness, and leadership.

Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills scrambles for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Highmark Stadium on September 08, 2024 in Orchard Park, New York.

“I’m watching a lot of Josh Allen and Joe Burrow right now. Those are my guys,” Manning said on press conference. “They’re dogs. I’ve watched some of their college film. They’re just good players, elite competitors and fun to watch.”

Although Arch mentioned both Josh Allen and Joe Burrow, he made it clear who stands out the most: the Bills quarterback. He explained that Allen’s mobility is something he’s trying to replicate in order to enhance his own game.

“He’s just the ultimate football player,” Manning said about Allen. “If something’s not there he’s going to make something happen and do whatever he can to make his team win.”

Will Arch Manning enter the NFL Draft in 2026?

Arch Manning has spent two seasons with the Longhorns and is currently 21 years old. While there’s speculation that he might enter the 2026 NFL Draft, the more likely scenario is that he waits until 2027 or even 2028.

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The 2025 season will be his first as a full-time starter at Texas, and he may look to develop further over a couple of years before declaring for the NFL.