Robert Griffin III’s recent post defending Arch Manning ignited fresh debate about the Texas quarterback’s development and expectations. Griffin argued that critics who wrote Manning off after early struggles are overlooking a normal growth curve for elite prospects.
Manning’s season has not been linear, with a difficult debut against Ohio State followed by steady improvement that has produced back‑to‑back strong outings. Scouts point to his size, arm strength and mobility as pro‑level traits, while noting his limited starts and mechanical inconsistencies that require polish before NFL teams can call him ready.
NFL, Arch Manning
Nov 1, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks with quarterback Arch Manning (16) during a timeout in the second half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Analysis from draft outlets frames Manning as a high‑upside, work‑in‑progress prospect rather than an immediate franchise savior. Comparisons to other young quarterbacks who required time to develop — from Joe Burrow to Bo Nix and Baker Mayfield — underline a common theme: early struggles do not preclude eventual success when a player possesses the right tools and coaching environment.
Fan reaction has swung with the tape, and social media has amplified both impatience and patience in equal measure. Some voices insist Manning must produce now given his pedigree; others echo Griffin’s point that quarterback growth is often incremental and tied to experience at the collegiate level, not just preseason hype or family name.
Evaluators stress specific areas for improvement, including consistent mechanics, decision‑making under pressure and refined timing with receivers. Those same evaluators also highlight virtues that project well to the next level: velocity on intermediate throws, pocket navigation and the capacity to create with his legs when protections break down.
Former NFL Star Robert Griffin III Shares His Take About Texas QB Arch Manning
NFL, Robert Griffin III
Oct 18, 2020; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Robert Griffin III (3) walks off the field after win against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Griffing recently dropped his take about Manning and his doubters out there. This can be seen in a post shared by the sports analyst’s official X account.
Arch Manning haters are sick right now.
His growth in the last 2 games has been promising.
-Back to back 325+ yard and 3 TD games
-Nearly 70% completion percentage
-7 total TDS and 1 Int
-93.1 QBR to upset Vanderbilt
Some people crushed him because he wasn’t a finished Super… pic.twitter.com/7sPPUj2qZh
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) November 5, 2025
For Texas, the immediate focus remains on continued game‑to‑game development and sustaining defensive support that allows Manning to learn without shouldering unrealistic expectations. The longer view is about preparing for a 2026 draft cycle that will evaluate both physical traits and readiness.
NFL, Arch Manning
Nov 1, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) passes over Vanderbilt Commodores defensive lineman Zaylin Wood (15) during the second half at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Griffin’s defense reframed the conversation toward patience and process rather than snap judgments. Whether Manning fulfills the lofty projections will depend on repetition, coaching and the time he’s given to turn promise into consistent performance.
NFL, Arch Manning
Nov 1, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks to pass on the first play of the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
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