Texas WR Cam Coleman Reveals Arch Manning's Key Role in Portal Move

The former Auburn standout says building chemistry with the Longhorns' star QB was crucial in his decision to transfer to Texas.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 7:24pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football practice or game scene, with the figures of a wide receiver and quarterback breaking down into sharp, overlapping planes of color in shades of orange, blue, and white.The dynamic duo of wide receiver Cam Coleman and quarterback Arch Manning look to lead the Texas Longhorns' offense to new heights.Auburn Today

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Cam Coleman, one of the top transfer portal prospects this offseason, revealed the pivotal role that star quarterback Arch Manning played in his decision to join the Longhorns. Coleman said he and Manning have been working closely to develop chemistry during spring practice, with the talented QB even providing input on routes. Despite lucrative offers from other programs, Coleman cited the opportunity to play with Manning as a key factor in his move to Austin.

Why it matters

The addition of Coleman, a highly productive wide receiver, gives the Longhorns' offense a major boost as they look to bounce back from a disappointing season and challenge for a College Football Playoff spot. Manning's ability to attract top talent like Coleman is a testament to his growing star power and the excitement around the Longhorns' program under head coach Steve Sarkisian.

The details

Coleman, who earned a 75.2 PFSN College Wide Receiver Impact score last season at Auburn, said he and Manning have been 'building chemistry every day' through practices, film sessions, and Manning providing input on routes. Despite the 'chaos' at Auburn that led to the firing of head coach Hugh Freeze, Coleman had a strong 2025 campaign with 708 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. Sarkisian acted quickly in the transfer portal to retool the Longhorns' offense, which struggled at times last season, earning only an 79.9 PFSN College Offense Impact score.

  • Coleman entered the transfer portal in January 2026 after two seasons at Auburn.
  • Coleman committed to Texas shortly after entering the portal.

The players

Cam Coleman

A wide receiver who was the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2026 transfer portal after two seasons at Auburn.

Arch Manning

The star quarterback for the Texas Longhorns and a heavy preseason Heisman Trophy favorite.

Steve Sarkisian

The head coach of the Texas Longhorns, who acted decisively in the transfer portal to retool the team's offense.

Hugh Freeze

The former head coach of the Auburn Tigers, who was fired midway through the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“That's who is ultimately going to be getting me the ball. So really, we have been building that relationship. It's been good. We're building chemistry every day. Throwing every day. Really just watching film. He even tells me where he wants me to be on routes. So really, just building chemistry every day.”

— Cam Coleman, Texas Wide Receiver

“Just a lot of prayer, a lot of thought. A lot of talk with my family. Really, just finding the best opportunity for me... What [Texas] has been doing in the past, what they've got rolling, going on here. Really, it was just a good fit for me.”

— Cam Coleman, Texas Wide Receiver

What’s next

Coleman and Manning will look to continue building their chemistry throughout spring practice and the summer as the Longhorns prepare for the 2026 season. Their connection will be crucial to the team's success and Manning's Heisman Trophy campaign.

The takeaway

The addition of Cam Coleman, one of the top transfer portal prospects, gives the Texas Longhorns a major boost on offense as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. Coleman's decision to join the Longhorns was heavily influenced by the opportunity to play with star quarterback Arch Manning, highlighting Manning's growing influence and the excitement around the program under Steve Sarkisian.