Arch Manning Studies These Two NFL Quarterbacks to Elevate His Game at Texas Football Next Season
Arch Manning, the highly touted Texas Longhorns quarterback and one of the most discussed prospects in college football, is known for his relentless work ethic and passion for improving every aspect of his game. While many young quarterbacks focus mostly on their own physical development and team playbooks, Manning takes it a step further—spending countless hours watching film of NFL quarterbacks to sharpen his skills, gain insights, and prepare for the challenges ahead.
This season, two NFL quarterbacks have captured Manning’s attention like never before. Their unique styles, decision-making, and leadership qualities provide Manning with valuable lessons that could help him transition smoothly from college to the professional ranks. Let’s explore why Arch Manning is watching tape on these two NFL signal-callers and what it means for Texas football.
Arch Manning’s film sessions have zeroed in on two NFL quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs and Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers. Both players represent the modern era of quarterback play, blending elite athleticism with high football IQ, and they provide two distinct but complementary models for Manning to study.
Patrick Mahomes is a quarterback whose name is synonymous with innovation on the field. His ability to extend plays, throw from seemingly impossible angles, and read defenses on the fly has redefined what it means to be a top-level quarterback. For Manning, Mahomes embodies the creative edge needed to excel in today’s fast-paced and complex NFL offenses.
One of the primary reasons Manning watches Mahomes is to learn how to remain calm under pressure and make plays even when the original play design breaks down. Mahomes’s scrambling ability and accuracy on the move are lessons Manning hopes to absorb. By studying Mahomes’s footwork, release points, and field vision, Manning is gaining insight into how to maintain poise while improvising, an invaluable skill in both college and professional football.
Moreover, Mahomes’s deep ball accuracy and ability to connect on long, downfield throws open up the entire offense. Arch Manning, known for his own strong arm and accuracy, is likely focusing on how Mahomes sets up defenders and times his passes, which could elevate Manning’s downfield passing consistency. Understanding how to create separation for receivers and deliver the ball quickly while under duress are key takeaways Manning is actively incorporating into his training.
Beyond technique, Mahomes is a leader who commands respect in the locker room and on the field. Manning, growing into his own leadership role at Texas, appreciates how Mahomes balances confidence and humility, keeping his teammates motivated while handling media pressure gracefully. This off-field example is just as important for Manning’s overall development as a program leader.
On the other end of the spectrum, Justin Herbert represents a quarterback who excels through precision, textbook mechanics, and a cerebral approach to the game. Herbert’s success lies in his ability to make quick decisions, deliver pinpoint throws with perfect timing, and manage the game with intelligence.
Arch Manning’s study of Herbert’s tape helps him focus on the fundamentals of quarterback play that are sometimes overlooked amid flashy plays and highlight reels. Herbert’s pocket presence, anticipation, and ability to read defenses pre-snap allow him to make consistent throws, avoid turnovers, and keep drives alive.
Manning is particularly interested in Herbert’s approach to progression reads—how Herbert quickly cycles through his options, identifying the open receiver while maintaining rhythm. In the modern game, where offenses move at a rapid pace, mastering progressions is critical, and Herbert’s example provides a blueprint Manning can emulate.
Additionally, Herbert’s footwork and throwing mechanics serve as a reminder of the importance of discipline and repetition. Manning understands that even the best arm won’t succeed without solid fundamentals, and Herbert’s steady form and balance under pressure inspire Manning’s offseason drills.
Herbert’s quiet leadership style, marked by work ethic and preparation, also resonates with Manning. While Mahomes is flamboyant and dynamic, Herbert’s calm and methodical approach is equally effective. Manning benefits from blending these leadership qualities as he matures as a quarterback.
Arch Manning’s decision to study these two NFL quarterbacks closely reflects his commitment to becoming a complete player and leader for Texas football. The Longhorns have high hopes that Manning can be a transformational figure for the program, and his focus on learning from elite pros accelerates his growth.
For Texas, having a quarterback who models his game on both the improvisational genius of Mahomes and the technical precision of Herbert bodes well for the team’s offensive development. Manning’s improved ability to extend plays and throw deep will make the Longhorns’ offense more explosive, while his enhanced decision-making and mechanics will reduce costly mistakes.
The combination of these skills means Texas can diversify its play-calling, blending quick, efficient passing with dynamic big-play potential. This balanced offensive approach can keep defenses guessing and give the Longhorns a competitive edge in the tough Big 12 conference.
Moreover, Manning’s growing leadership skills—shaped by studying the personalities and behaviors of Mahomes and Herbert—will help foster a positive team culture. A quarterback who leads by example, communicates effectively, and inspires confidence is often the difference-maker in close games and playoff runs.
Studying NFL quarterbacks also helps Arch Manning prepare mentally for the transition from college football to the pros. The NFL game is faster, defenses more complex, and the pressure on quarterbacks enormous. Manning’s film sessions are a way to bridge that gap early.
By internalizing how Mahomes and Herbert handle defensive schemes, blitzes, and coverage disguises, Manning sharpens his pre-snap reads and post-snap adjustments. These film lessons enable him to diagnose problems quickly, avoid sacks, and exploit defensive weaknesses.
Additionally, Manning observes how these NFL stars manage the mental aspects of the game—maintaining focus during long drives, bouncing back from mistakes, and controlling emotions in high-stakes moments. This mental toughness is crucial for any quarterback aiming for longevity and success at the next level.
Texas coaches support Manning’s film study habits, encouraging him to develop the intellectual tools needed for the pro game. They also tailor practice reps and film sessions to reinforce the techniques Manning admires in Mahomes and Herbert, ensuring the learning translates to on-field execution.
As Arch Manning continues to blend the creativity of Patrick Mahomes and the precision of Justin Herbert into his own unique style, Texas football fans have every reason to be excited. Manning’s commitment to self-improvement, leadership growth, and study of elite NFL quarterbacks highlights his dedication to elevating both his game and his team.
His willingness to learn from two of the best quarterbacks in the league shows maturity and vision beyond his years. For the Longhorns, this means a quarterback ready not just to compete but to lead Texas to new heights.
In the coming seasons, Manning’s development will be a fascinating storyline—watching how he incorporates what he learns from Mahomes and Herbert, adjusts to college defenses, and ultimately shapes his own legacy. For Texas football, having a quarterback who studies the NFL’s best is a sign that greatness may soon be on the horizon.