It is no longer a question of If Arch Manning takes the helm of the Texas Longhorns. Its when. A viral video from several years ago captured a young Manning, proudly wearing a burnt orange Texas jersey, declaring his college choice: “Texas.” That moment came to fruition when Manning officially committed to the Longhorns in 2022.

Manning arrived at the Forty Acres with the understanding that he would be playing understudy to Quinn Ewers, the other quarterback to make this team his own. “This is Quinn’s team,” Manning said just a few weeks agoand acknowledges its current role. But as Ewers looks toward the 2025 NFL Draft — where analysts project him as a first- or second-round pick — the focus inevitably shifts to what’s next.

While Ewers’ draft stock isn’t locked into a top-10 spot just yet, strong performances in Texas’ remaining games could elevate his position. Even if Ewers leads Texas to an SEC championship or the College Football Playoff, he’s unlikely to return for his senior season because of the injury risks and his growing NFL potential.

Young Arch Manning predicted his own commitment to Texas

More HERE: https://t.co/YdSWiiQrA9pic.twitter.com/46Nu3lfNBr

— On3 Recruits (@On3Recruits) June 24, 2022

Assuming Ewers departs, Manning will likely make his starting debut on August 30, 2025, in a high stakes season opener against Ohio State at Buckeye Stadium. While a challenging atmosphere awaits, Manning’s pedigree and preparation inspire confidence. Next question: Who steps up as QB2?

ABC’s Joe Tessitore shared an interesting story about Texas QB Arch Manning. Earlier this season, Manning declined a postgame interview opportunity, saying, “This is Quinn’s team right now.”

— Hayden Victoria (@RealHaydenVic) November 9, 2024

The Rise of Trey Owens

With Manning securing the starting role, Trey Owens is sure to become the team’s primary backup. The Houston native and Cy-Fair High School graduate brings an impressive resume. A two-time all-district honoree and All-American Bowl participant, Owens tallied 6,411 passing yards and 81 touchdowns against just 11 interceptions in his high school career.

Owens’ senior season saw him complete 222 of 313 passes for 3,303 yards and 43 touchdowns, earning District 17-6A Offensive MVP honors. His leadership propelled Cy-Fair to an 11-2 record, a district title and a playoff appearance. Owens is known for his consistency, poise and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, traits that make him a strong candidate for QB2.

Owens saw some snaps this year during the UTSA game at DKR. He completed for 19 yards, completing about half of the passes he threw for. He’s still worth a start, in the event Arch isn’t available or needs the rest. After all, he was recruited by Sarkisian for a reason. Just check out his throw in the spring game:

Trey Owens every throw from the spring game

He went 14 for 21 (66%), 228 yards and 3 touchdowns pic.twitter.com/OrINuTtSXQ

— Nash (@NashTalksTexas) April 21, 2024

What’s Next for Texas Football?

As the Longhorns prepare for a new era, all signs point to Arch Manning becoming the face of the program. But with Trey Owens and a deep quarterback room behind them in the next recruiting class, Texas means building a foundation for long-term success. The future is bright at the Forty Acres, and the SEC will soon see what the Longhorns are made of. It just means more.