Crossposting to this thread...
Manning is not a 2026 NFL Draft prospect
With below-average offensive line play and a quarterback who is trying to figure out his passing rhythm and anticipation in real time, the result is Texas’ offense. Young quarterbacks tend to be overly conservative, and we are reminded of Manning’s inexperience with every dropback. Against Florida, his lack of anticipation led to tardy decisions. And too often when he found the right read, he hurried his mechanics, which resulted in an inaccurate throw (or worse, an interception). It doesn’t help that the Gators consistently got pressure with only four rushers, and the Texas running game offered very little relief, which put an even heavier burden on the quarterback.
Manning’s best play of the day was his third-quarter touchdown toss. He was immediately forced off his spot (again, by a four-man rush), and he subtly shuffled to his left and found Wingo on the post for the touchdown pass. In the second half, Manning’s ability to keep plays alive with his legs was a major factor in Texas keeping it a one-possession game. While an inconsistent performance overall, there were several examples of progress to take away from Manning’s day.
Like with any college quarterback with single-digit career starts and an inconsistent supporting cast, any reaction to his play shouldn’t be an obituary. Is development guaranteed? Of course not. But how Manning looked in his first career SEC road start (Saturday against the Gators) will almost certainly look different when he makes his 20th career start. This is a quarterback figuring things out in the moment, which is why Manning shouldn’t be considered a 2026 NFL Draft prospect — he is a 2027 or 2028 NFL Draft prospect. — Dane Brugler, NFL Draft analyst