Sarkisian confirms Arch Manning is throwing well, progressing as expected. The star QB is on track for a healthy, pivotal season with Texas.
The Texas Longhorns football received encouraging news this week regarding the health of their most important player, Arch Manning—and it couldn’t come at a better time.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian provided insight into Manning’s recovery as spring practice gets underway. The sophomore quarterback, who underwent a minor offseason procedure on his foot, is progressing as expected and working his way back into action.
"The progress has been… on par with where he should be," Sarkisian said. "He was throwing the ball today. Threw it really well, we'll gradually work him back in again."
Manning was one of several key Longhorns to have surgery following the 2025 season, a group that also included multiple projected starters on both sides of the ball. While those injuries initially raised concern about how much Texas would be able to accomplish during spring practices, the early returns appear positive—especially when it comes to their star quarterback.
Rather than rushing Manning back onto the field at full capacity, Sarkisian and his staff are taking a measured approach. As a result, some of the team's backup guys are getting some important reps.
Manning dealt with the injury throughout portions of last season before ultimately addressing it in the offseason. Now, entering a pivotal year in his development, the goal is to ensure he’s fully healthy and able to perform at his highest level when it matters most.
The young star QB racked up 3163 passing yards and 26 touchdowns in his first full year as the starter. But where Manning really shines at times is on the ground, as he was able to tally 399 yards and 10 scores with his legs.
Spring practice will still provide valuable insight, even if Manning is limited at times. It offers an opportunity for younger players to step up, for the offense to evolve, and for Sarkisian to fine-tune the system around his quarterback.
But make no mistake—the story remains Manning.
As long as his recovery continues on this upward trajectory, Texas will head into the 2026 season exactly where it wants to be: with its leader healthy, developing, and ready to take the next step.
If that happens, the Longhorns won’t just be good—they’ll be a legitimate contender. And Manning could be on track for a Heisman and a high draft pick in the next NFL Draft.