In a stunning twist that has rocked the college football world, five-star quarterback Arch Manning has decommitted from the Texas Longhorns and announced his commitment to the Kentucky Wildcats. The highly-touted signal caller, nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, made the announcement early Friday morning via social media, sending shockwaves through the recruiting landscape.
Manning, once considered the cornerstone of Texas’ future, had long been committed to head coach Steve Sarkisian and was expected to compete for the starting job in Austin. However, sources close to the family indicate a mix of coaching changes, offensive philosophy shifts, and a desire for a fresh start contributed to his decision.
What’s even more shocking is where Manning is headed. The Kentucky Wildcats, known more for basketball than football, beat out traditional SEC powerhouses Alabama and Tennessee for Manning’s commitment. The move signals a massive recruiting victory for Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops, who has been building a strong program in Lexington over recent seasons.
“I want to blaze my own path,” Manning said in a statement. “Kentucky gave me a vision and a belief that I can help take this program to new heights.”
Kentucky fans erupted with excitement following the announcement, while Texas supporters expressed disappointment and disbelief. Meanwhile, Alabama and Tennessee, both in heavy pursuit of Manning, will now scramble to recalibrate their 2025 quarterback recruiting plans.
With this commitment, Kentucky has now secured its highest-rated recruit in program history, instantly changing the perception of what’s possible in Lexington. If Manning lives up to his sky-high potential, this could mark a turning point not only for Kentucky football but for the entire SEC landscape.