Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam recently stated that the Browns are not actively pursuing Texas quarterback Arch Manning for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Addressing speculation that Cleveland is targeting Manning due to their ongoing quarterback issues, Haslam dismissed the idea, stating, “I think if you know the Manning family, I would bet — and I don’t know Arch at all — I bet he stays in college two years. I don’t even think that’s worth discussing.”
Manning is set to take over as Texas’ starting quarterback this season. However, the assumption that he will enter the draft next year, combined with Haslam’s connections to the Manning family, has fueled rumors that Manning could be selected by the Browns with one of their two first-round picks.
Manning’s performance last season included 939 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and four rushing touchdowns behind Quinn Ewers. During SEC Media Days, Manning acknowledged the challenges of being a backup but affirmed his commitment to Texas, stating, “I never really wanted to leave. If there was somewhere else I wanted to be, I would have gone.”
Texas is scheduled to kick off its season against defending national champion Ohio State on Aug. 30.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
