The 2026 TIME100 list includes Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, and his entry was written by one of the school's biggest football fans, Matthew McConaughey.
McConaughey acknowledged the questions Manning faced as part of a football dynasty, whether it be the ones surrounding him after an incompletion.
“But now, after a promising second half to last season, some added offensive weapons, and most importantly some time to settle into himself, the occasion for Arch’s inner confidence to deal with the brightest lights has never been more lit,” the Oscar winner wrote.
Now, even McConaughey doesn't know what the future holds for Manning — will he win the Heisman Trophy or enter the NFL Draft? He doesn't know, but he knows the Manning family focuses on the “big picture of their own success.” Ultimately, the Dazed and Confused star is willing to “bet” on the QB.
“Is he gonna win the Heisman? Enter the draft or stay at UT? TBD,” he conceded. “But remember, the Manning family measures the big picture of their own success with a longer view than any of us on the sidelines—they don’t try to get anywhere, they make their own decisions, take care of business where they are, then show up where they’re supposed to be. Personally, I’ll take that bet.”
Arch Manning and Texas football are rolling right now
Article Continues Below
Manning and Texas are still the top-ranked school in the country after beating Tennessee. They have some tough games ahead against Oklahoma, Florida, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Missouri, and LSU coming up.
So far, Manning has completed 63.5% of his passes for 862 yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions. He has also rushed for 82 yards, though he doesn't have a touchdown on the ground yet.
There is a chance that the 22-year-old quarterback enters the NFL Draft come April 2027. He appears bound to be a high draft pick like his uncles, Peyton and Eli Manning.