Arch Manning explains why he stayed at Texas instead of entering the NCAA transfer portal

The moment that news broke that quarterback Quinn Ewers was returning to the Texas Longhorns for the 2024 season, speculation started that quarterback Arch Manning could enter the NCAA transfer portal.

Manning, a former five-star recruit, will be a redshirt freshman this fall at Texas where he'll serve as the primary backup to Ewers.

Despite the speculation about Manning entering the portal, the New Orleans native never seriously entertained the idea of leaving Austin.

Manning told The Athletic at the Manning Passing Academy in Thibodaux, LA, that not playing is "tough", but he stuck around at Texas because it's been his dream to play for the Longhorns.

“It’s tough because you want to be out there playing with your boys,” said Manning to The Athletic . “But (it came down to) just realizing there’s nowhere else I want to be, and it was my dream to play at Texas. I’m going to stick it out and play there eventually.”

Ewers also spoke to The Athletic at the Manning Passing Academy about Manning's decision to stay at Texas.

“I think he understands that what he’s got here is he’s gonna be the most ready whenever he goes to the NFL,” said Ewers. “I think coach Sark (Steve Sarkisian) does the best job getting quarterbacks ready for the NFL and developing guys. (Manning will) be playing in his third year. He’ll be more than comfortable in operating the offense, and it’s just a really good fit for him."

Sitting is never easy for a highly-touted recruit. But Manning isn't looking for quick playing time. Instead, he's looking for the best situation. And he's confident that he found it at Texas.

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