Texas QB Arch Manning Feeling '100 Percent' After Foot Surgery

The Longhorns' star quarterback is taking it slow in spring practice but expects to be ready for the season.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:48am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a college football quarterback in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of burnt orange, royal blue, and white, conveying the dynamic energy and complexity of the sport.Arch Manning's recovery from offseason surgery will be crucial as Texas looks to reach new heights in 2026.Austin Today

Texas quarterback Arch Manning said he is feeling '100 percent' after undergoing offseason foot surgery, though the team is taking a cautious approach with him in spring practice. Manning, the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, had a breakout 2025 season, passing for 3,163 yards and 26 touchdowns while also rushing for 10 scores. He's focused on mental reps and getting to know his new teammates as he works his way back to full strength.

Why it matters

As the preseason No. 1 team, Texas and Arch Manning have high expectations for the 2026 season. Manning's health and development will be crucial to the Longhorns' chances of making the College Football Playoff and competing for a national championship.

The details

Manning underwent what the school called a 'minor' foot procedure in January. He is currently doing light workouts in spring practice but said he would be able to play in a game today if needed. The quarterback described the 2025 season as a 'roller coaster,' with the first half being frustrating before he was able to turn things around and lead Texas to a 10-3 record and a Citrus Bowl victory.

  • In January 2026, Manning underwent offseason foot surgery.
  • On April 16, 2026, Manning spoke to reporters about his recovery and preparations for the upcoming season.

The players

Arch Manning

The starting quarterback for the University of Texas Longhorns, and the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning.

Peyton Manning

Arch Manning's uncle, a former NFL quarterback who played for the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos.

Eli Manning

Arch Manning's uncle, a former NFL quarterback who played for the New York Giants.

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What they’re saying

“I feel 100 percent right now. We're kind of taking it slow, but if we had a game today I'd be playing.”

— Arch Manning, Texas Quarterback

“It was hard the first few weeks just not being able to do anything. Now I get to do a little bit more.”

— Arch Manning, Texas Quarterback

“I think I could have had more fun. The first half of the season, I was (ticked). I wasn't playing well and it wasn't fun for me. And then I kind of sort of said 'screw it' and had a little more fun and started winning some games.”

— Arch Manning, Texas Quarterback

What’s next

As Manning continues to recover, the focus will be on him gradually increasing his workload in spring practice and being fully cleared for the start of the 2026 season. Texas will hold its annual spring game on April 22, which could provide an update on Manning's progress.

The takeaway

Arch Manning's health and performance will be critical to Texas' chances of contending for a national championship in 2026. After a roller-coaster 2025 season, Manning is determined to be at his best and help the Longhorns reach their full potential.