Now that every college sport is officially in its offseason, it is already time to look ahead to next year and every single thing that could possibly unfold from August through June. That includes projecting, expecting, and predicting which players will go where in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Since Texas quarterback Arch Manning's two full games as the starter, people have had the young QB as the No. 1 overall draft pick next year. However, ESPN's latest NFL Mock Draft tells a very different story.
ESPN's Matt Miller released his mock draft with 10 months until the actual Draft took place. Immediately, Miller let everyone reading his article know that he expects Manning to stick around with the Longhorns for another season.
Queue the wedding bells, fireworks, round of applause, or any other sound that signifies a monumental celebration, because Texas fans across the country would rejoice if Miller's prediction comes true.
What might the Browns and Rams do with their first-rounders? How many QBs could go on Day 1? Here's my early look at the 2026 draft.https://t.co/dWLO5CpXFT
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) June 30, 2025
Last season, Manning earned 939 passing yards on 61 completions for nine touchdowns and just two interceptions. He also amassed 108 rushing yards for an additional four touchdowns, including one against the Texas A&M Aggies.
As Manning takes hold of the Texas offensive reins, his stats are expected to skyrocket. If he stays for the 2026 season, they should only blossom that much more.
While Miller left Manning in Austin, he did list Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. as the fourth overall pick, landing with the New York Jets, adding to a currently lackluster defensive unit. Last year was Hill's sophomore season for the Horns, and he already showed just how big of a beast he could be.
Hill racked up a resounding 113 total tackles (59 solo), as well as eight sacks, four forced fumbles, one pass deflection, and one interception for 32 yards. To put it simply, it would be astonishing if everything goes right for Hill throughout the upcoming season and he doesn't get drafted in the first round next year.
In 2025, three Longhorns were taken in the first round of the NFL Draft. Offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. went ninth overall to the New Orleans Saints, defensive back Jahdae Barron was taken 20th overall by the Denver Broncos, and the Green Bay Packers selected wide receiver Matthew Golden as pick No. 23 in the first round.