Arch Manning, preparing for his first full season as the starting quarterback for the University of Texas, has several trusted mentors within his family, including uncles Peyton and Eli Manning, and his grandfather Archie Manning. However, he also looks beyond family for inspiration, particularly admiring current NFL stars to develop his own style.
During this summer’s Manning Passing Academy, where Arch and his relatives served as volunteer counselors, Manning shared that he closely studies leading NFL quarterbacks to refine his game. He identified players like Josh Allen and Joe Burrow as key influences on his development.
I’m watching a lot of Josh Allen and Joe Burrow right now. Those are my guys,
Manning said.
They’re dogs. I’ve watched some of their college film. They’re just good players, elite competitors and fun to watch.
Adopting Josh Allen’s Physical Approach to Quarterbacking
Unlike his famous uncles, Arch Manning’s playing style incorporates strong running capabilities alongside his passing prowess, making Josh Allen a particularly relevant role model. Allen is recognized not just for his arm but also for his tenacity on the ground, consistently pushing through defenders to gain extra yards.
Though Allen may not have top-end speed, his aggressive running style, fearless attitude, and ability to absorb hits while advancing the ball have become well-known hallmarks that Arch looks up to. Emulating these traits helps Manning bring physicality and resilience to his own game.
Manning’s Early Career Highlights and Versatility at Texas
Despite the high expectations that come with the Manning surname and NFL great lineage, Arch has demonstrated remarkable composure and maturity. He redshirted during his true freshman season in 2023 and served as a backup to Quinn Ewers, a seventh-round NFL draft pick.
When Ewers suffered an injury during the season, Manning stepped into the starting role and showed flashes of his versatile talent. One particularly memorable moment occurred against UTSA, where Arch executed a misdirection play, finding an opening and sprinting 67 yards for a touchdown.
He also made a notable impact in the final regular-season game against Texas A&M, contributing with a designed run that showcased his balance and determination as he reached the end zone for the game’s opening score.
Arch’s unique ability to combine passing skill with effective, physical scrambling bears resemblance to Josh Allen’s style, especially during plays where the quarterback must improvise under pressure.
He’s just the ultimate football player. If something’s not there he’s going to make something happen and do whatever he can to make his team win,
Manning said.
Josh Allen’s Impact on Manning and Expectations for the Future
In the 2024 NFL season, Allen ranked fifth among quarterbacks with 531 rushing yards and second in rushing touchdowns with 12. Over his seven-year career with the Buffalo Bills, he has amassed more than 4,000 rushing yards and 65 rushing touchdowns, underscoring his effectiveness as a dual-threat quarterback.
Arch Manning carries not only the weight of his renowned family’s legacy but also the hopes of leading Texas to another impressive College Football Playoff run, following in the footsteps of Quinn Ewers, who started in two CFP semifinals before entering the NFL Draft. Manning’s blend of poise, versatility, and physicality continues to raise expectations for his collegiate and professional career.
Projections anticipate that Arch will be selected as a top quarterback prospect in the NFL Draft, likely taken in the first round between 2026 and 2027. For now, he looks to channel the competitive spirit of Josh Allen to sharpen his performance at Texas, with the prospect of their paths crossing in the NFL in the near future.