Who Is Arch Manning? Introducing Peyton and Eli’s Quarterback Nephew
Indeed, the quarterback for the University of Texas, Arch Manning, is related to former NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning.
“He’s my nephew, and I’ve always attempted to assist and support him as much as I can,” Eli shared in a September 2024 interview. “I’ve talked about having a plan but not locking yourself into one path. I’m proud of how hard he’s worked. He’s committed, puts in the effort, and is a good kid.”
The Longhorns star has been making headlines long before his collegiate debut in September 2024. Arch, at 21, played in 10 games last season, serving as the backup to Quinn Ewers.
After Ewers, 22, was picked by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Arch officially stepped up as the starting quarterback for a team with national championship dreams.
For the first time in its history, Texas kicks off the season as the No. 1 ranked team in the Associated Press’ preseason poll.
“I’m just eager to play,” Arch told The Athletic on August 25. “I don’t pay attention to any media. If I come across something on Instagram — I have a private account — I just click ‘not interested.’ So, I’m ready to play.”
Arch is the son of Cooper Manning, the oldest brother of Eli and Peyton. He and his wife, Ellen Heidingsfelder, have a daughter named May Manning and a son named Heid Manning.
Continue scrolling for everything you need to know about Arch:
1. He’s Named for a Legend
Arch — with the full name of Archibald — was named after his grandfather, Archie Manning. Archie played 14 seasons in the NFL, most notably for the New Orleans Saints from 1971 to 1982.
2. Where His Speed Came From
In postgame interviews, Arch revealed that his agility is inherited from his mother’s side of the family, a fact that his father, Cooper, confirmed. “He definitely got his speed from mom,” Cooper remarked in a September 15 Instagram post.
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3. He’s In a Video Game
“I’m IN the game,” Arch captioned a July 9 Instagram video that showcased him playing EA SPORTS College Football 25 alongside Uncle Eli. They joked about Eli being Arch’s in-game coach. When they scored a touchdown, Eli exclaimed: “Now that’s why you’re in the game.”
4. What He’s Studying
According to his player profile, Arch is pursuing a degree in Communication and Leadership at the University of Texas.
5. He Never Considered Transferring While Waiting for His Time
Despite becoming one of the most talked-about players in college football last season, Arch was primarily a backup to Ewers.
Nonetheless, Arch mentioned that transferring to another school “never really crossed my mind.”
“Texas was my ideal place,” Arch stated to The Athletic on August 25. “I wanted to be in this city, I valued the education, and I had friends here. I was still maturing as a football player and as an individual.”
He added, “I never really had the urge to leave. If there was a place I desired, I would have gone there.”
