ESPN: Arch Manning wants to be 'the guy' at Texas before opting into EA Sports' College Football video game

On Monday, On3’s Pete Nakos reported Texas quarterback Arch Manning will not opt into EA Sports’ upcoming NCAA Football video game. Less than 24 hours later, ESPN’s Mark Schlabach revealed why Manning decided not to be a part of the legendary franchise.

“Manning, who attempted only five passes in one game as Quinn Ewers’ backup in 2023, wanted to wait until ‘he was the guy’ at Texas, the source said,” Schlabach wrote.

Over 10,000 players have already opted into the game. Each player who does will receive $600 from EA and a free copy of the game. Evidently, the offer wasn’t enough to entice Manning, who boasts a $2.8 million On3 NIL Valuation.

Arch Manning was the No. 1 overall recruit in the Class of 2023. However, he was just another quarterback in Texas’ loaded QB room this past season. Manning was the Longhorns’ third-string QB behind Ewers and Maalik Murphy.

Manning only appeared in one game for Texas this season. He completed 2-of-his-5 passes for 30 yards in the Longhorns’ 57-7 win over in-state rival Texas Tech. He also recorded three carries for seven yards in the victory.

After the conclusion of Texas’ regular season, Murphy announced his decision to transfer to Duke. Immediately, Manning became the No. 2 player in Texas’ QB room. Many expected Ewers to declare for the NFL Draft after the 2023 campaign, and Manning to become QB1.

Instead, Ewers decided to return for another year. In the 2023 campaign, Ewers threw for 3,161 yards and 21 touchdowns across 11 games as a redshirt sophomore. His biggest game in the Big 12 Championship against Oklahoma State when he threw for 452 yards and four touchdowns.

Evidently, Manning wants to continue to climb up the ladder before allowing fans across the country to play as him on their gaming consoles. Manning’s uncle and former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning addressed Arch’s depth chart situation in February.

“He picked Texas because that’s where he wants to be,” Eli Manning said. “That’s where he wants to play football. He likes coach [Steve] Sarkisian and his offense and what they’re doing. He knew last year that he was gonna go, he was gonna redshirt, get some playing time.

“Obviously, I think the plan was [Quinn] Ewers would maybe go in the NFL, but he’s there. It’s another year for for Arch to mature, learn the offense, get bigger and stronger in the weight room, and always be prepared to play. You never know what’s gonna happen.”