Cooper Manning Praises Son Arch's Growth at Texas

The elder Manning reflects on Arch's maturation and evolution as the Longhorns' starting quarterback.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:34pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a college football quarterback in motion, with sharp planes of color and form representing the multifaceted nature of his personal and athletic development.A cubist interpretation of a young quarterback's growth and evolution, capturing the dynamic energy and complexity of his journey.Austin Today

In a recent podcast interview, Cooper Manning, the father of Texas quarterback Arch Manning, discussed his son's growth and development since joining the Longhorns. Cooper noted how Arch has matured both on and off the field, giving up social media and becoming more well-rounded as a 'Texas cowboy.' Despite facing intense hype and early-season struggles in 2025, Arch led Texas to a 10-3 season and a Citrus Bowl victory, and he enters 2026 as a Heisman favorite.

Why it matters

Arch Manning is one of the most highly touted quarterback prospects in recent memory, carrying on his family's storied football legacy. Cooper's insights provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at Arch's personal growth and evolution as he navigates the pressures of being a star college player.

The details

In the interview, Cooper Manning discussed how Arch has matured since arriving at Texas, noting that the 21-year-old 'doesn't even resemble the kid that went off to school.' Cooper praised Arch's decision to give up social media, saying it has allowed him to focus on his development and 'come into his own.' Cooper also highlighted Arch's close relationship with his brother Heid, as well as his embrace of the 'Texas cowboy' lifestyle, which has made him 'much more well-rounded.'

  • Arch Manning decided to return to Texas for the 2026 season instead of entering the NFL Draft.
  • In the 2025 season, Arch led Texas to a 10-3 record and a Citrus Bowl victory.

The players

Arch Manning

The starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns and one of the most highly touted quarterback prospects in recent memory, carrying on his family's storied football legacy.

Cooper Manning

The father of Arch Manning and the eldest brother of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning.

Steve Sarkisian

The head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team.

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What they’re saying

“He's 21 now, and he doesn't even resemble the kid that went off to school. He gave up social media, and I loved it. He called me more than I've ever been called in my life because he couldn't get on his phone. He goes, 'Dad, I think I like who I am better, not scrolling around.' He's just growing up, having new interests, and evolving. That's what college is about. That's why it's important to stay a while and watch a young man turn into a man.”

— Cooper Manning, Father of Arch Manning

What’s next

Arch Manning is entering the 2026 season as the Heisman favorite, and he has expressed that this year will be special for the Texas Longhorns as he continues to develop under head coach Steve Sarkisian.

The takeaway

Arch Manning's personal growth and maturation, both on and off the field, have been crucial to his development as a top college quarterback. His father's insights highlight the importance of allowing young athletes the time and space to evolve and find themselves, rather than being consumed by external hype and pressure.