As spring rolls into Austin, football buzz is in the air. The Texas Longhorns are gearing up for another season, with head coach Steve Sarkisian leading the charge at spring practices. While several former Longhorns are setting their sights on the NFL, those returning are focused on building a stronger campaign for 2026.
Last season left the Longhorns with mixed emotions. Despite a solid 10-3 record, they fell short of their lofty expectations after winning a Big 12 title and making consecutive College Football Playoff appearances in previous years.
For most teams, ten wins would be a triumph, but for Texas, missing out on the national title chase after starting the season ranked No. 1 was a letdown. Still, they showcased their prowess with significant victories over rivals like Texas A&M, Oklahoma, and Vanderbilt.
This year’s squad will have a fresh look, but one returning star is sparking plenty of pre-season buzz: Arch Manning. After completing his first full season as a starter, Manning has chosen to return, a decision that speaks volumes about his commitment to the team. His debut was a rollercoaster, filled with the expected growing pains and the extra scrutiny that comes with his famous last name.
Manning's performance wasn't flawless, but it was far from the disaster some headlines suggested. He racked up roughly 3,200 passing yards, 400 rushing yards, and 36 total touchdowns. While interceptions were a concern, with seven thrown over the season, including four in their three losses, his overall play showed promise.
Despite the ups and downs, Manning had the option to declare for the NFL Draft, where his potential would have attracted significant interest. His decision to stay reflects a strong commitment to the Longhorns, and Coach Sarkisian shares that sentiment. Sarkisian isn't just offering blind praise; Manning's improvement amid pressure and doubt was evident.
Though it will be some time before Manning takes the field again, Sarkisian is confident that he’ll return stronger, ready to lead the Longhorns to new heights. Fans are eager to see what this season holds, with hopes high for a return to championship contention.