Arch Manning’s NFL journey could begin where his family legacy took root, according to CBS Sports’ way-too-early 2026 NFL mock draft. The Texas quarterback headlines a quarterback-heavy first round, with defensive disruptors and sleeper prospects rounding out a class already generating buzz.
Quarterback Carousel: Manning Leads 2026 Class
Arch Manning (Texas, QB) remains the draft’s most compelling storyline. Despite just two college starts, his arm talent, pedigree, and potential reunion with the New Orleans Saints—where his grandfather Archie Manning starred—make him the projected No. 1 pick. Manning’s development under Texas coach Steve Sarkisian and OC Kyle Flood as he balances NFL readiness with a possible return to Austin in 2026.
Other signal-callers dominating first-round projections:
- Drew Allar (Penn State, QB): The 6’5” pocket passer could land with the Cleveland Browns at No. 2, offering raw tools to a team still searching for stability.
- LaNorris Sellers (South Carolina, QB): A dual-threat riser, Sellers’ mobility and improved accuracy position him as the Las Vegas Raiders’ potential answer at No. 6.
- Garrett Nussmeier (LSU, QB): With a cannon arm and aggressive style, Nussmeier (No. 12 to the Rams) could succeed Matthew Stafford.
Defensive Dominators: Top Prospects Emerge
The 2026 class shines brightest on defense, with three defenders projected in the top 10:
- Anthony Hill Jr. (Texas, LB): A 6’3”, 230-pound tackling machine, Hill’s sideline-to-sideline range makes him a fit for the Giants at No. 3.
- Rueben Bain (Miami, EDGE): The versatile pass rusher (4.5 sacks in 2023) could anchor the Titans’ front seven at No. 5.
- Caleb Downs (Ohio State, S): After transferring from Alabama, Downs’ 107 tackles and instincts position him as the Patriots’ Kam Chancellor-escential piece at No. 10.
Sleepers and Scheme Fits to Monitor
Beyond the marquee names, these prospects could rise with strong 2025 campaigns:
- C.J. Baxter (Texas, RB): The Bengals at No. 25 may target the explosive back (5.6 YPC in 2023) as Joe Mixon’s successor.
- Keldric Faulk (Auburn, EDGE): At 6’6”, 265 lbs, Faulk’s untapped potential mirrors Gregory Rousseau’s ascent. The Commanders at No. 26 could unlock it.
- Malik Muhammad (Texas, CB): A ball-hawking cornerback, Muhammad’s size and technique make him a Rams target at No. 27.
