In a way-too-early report, veteran analyst Mike Francesa has linked Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning to the New York Jets in the 2027 NFL Draft.

“Jets fans, I hate to give you this a year in advance, and it will make you hate the Mannings more," Francesa said on his podcast. "If you’re a Jets fan and you hate the Mannings already- because remember, Peyton didn’t want to play for the Jets. They will not let Arch Manning play for the Jets.”

Although the Jets traded for Geno Smith, they still need a franchise quarterback and would hope to land a highly rated quarterback like Arch Manning.

But as per Francesa, the move is highly unlikely due to his family background.

Eli Manning, Arch's uncle, refused to play for the San Diego Chargers after being selected first overall in 2004 before being traded to the New York Giants.

In 1997, Peyton Manning dodged the Jets by not declaring for the draft and deciding to stay another year at Tennessee. That year, the Jets held the No. 1 overall pick.

The grandson of Archie and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning started his collegiate career with the Longhorns in 2023. Last year, he played in 13 games, throwing for 3,163 yards, 26 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Arch Manning has demonstrated a playing style characterized by a blend of prototypical passing mechanics and modern dual-threat mobility, often navigating the intense pressure of the SEC with notable poise.

But if he does declare for the NFL next year, the Jets are expected to select him as they will hold a top pick, given their performance in the past.

Jets’ Struggles Come into Focus With Arch Manning Projection

The New York Jets have been struggling for more than a decade now. They closed their 2024 season with a 5-12 record, followed by a 3-14 record last season.

That gave them a chance to hold the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey.

The reason for the team's inability to stack up wins includes a combination of coaching instability, offensive inefficiency, and deep-seated organizational issues. 

The team currently holds the longest active playoff drought in the NFL at 15 consecutive years, since 2011 they haven’t been a part of the postseason.

Except for 2011, 2013 and 2015, they finished either 3rd or 4th in their division. 

In the last six years, they have cycled through four different head coaches, including interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich.

For the Jets, the connection to Manning reflects more than draft positioning. It highlights a team still trying to reset its identity while looking for a long-term solution under center.

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore