Potential Arch Manning Backup Impresses Texas Coach

Texas QB KJ Lacey stands out in early spring practices with strong throws and mobility.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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With starting quarterback Arch Manning sidelined for the start of spring practices, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has been impressed by the performance of second-year QB KJ Lacey, who is competing for the backup role behind Manning. Sarkisian praised Lacey's play, noting he's made "a lot of plays throwing the ball" and with his feet, though the coach acknowledged there are still some areas for improvement as Lacey gains more experience.

Why it matters

The battle for the backup quarterback position behind star Arch Manning is an important storyline for the Longhorns, as that player would be one play away from leading the high-powered Texas offense. Lacey's strong start to spring practice suggests he may be emerging as the frontrunner for that role.

The details

Lacey, a 2025 four-star recruit out of Alabama, played in just one game for Texas last season. But Sarkisian has been impressed with Lacey's development, saying he's made "a lot of plays throwing the ball" and with his feet during the early spring sessions. While Sarkisian acknowledged there are still some areas for Lacey to improve as he gains more experience, the coach seems pleased with the young QB's progress so far.

  • The Texas Longhorns began spring practices on Monday, March 10, 2026.

The players

Arch Manning

The starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, who is sidelined for the start of spring practices while recovering from foot surgery.

KJ Lacey

A second-year quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, who is competing for the backup role behind Arch Manning and has impressed head coach Steve Sarkisian in early spring practices.

Steve Sarkisian

The head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team.

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What they’re saying

“There's a lot of big reps that he's getting right now that I think are invaluable for him. Been very impressed — made a lot of plays throwing the ball, and made plays with his feet. There's a couple plays that I think he'll want back, but that's going to come with some of the experience and speed of the first-team defense too, of how they play. But this is a great opportunity for him.”

— Steve Sarkisian, Head Coach, Texas Longhorns (si.com)

What’s next

The competition for the backup quarterback role behind Arch Manning will continue throughout Texas' spring practice schedule, with a decision likely not coming until closer to the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

KJ Lacey's strong start to spring practice suggests he may be emerging as the frontrunner for the backup quarterback job behind star Arch Manning, providing the Longhorns with an intriguing option should Manning miss any time in 2026.