Arch Manning may be heading to Cleveland. Though the Texas Longhorns quarterback has yet to declare for the NFL Draft, he’s already one of the hottest prospects for 2026-and Browns owner Jimmy Haslam is reportedly on a mission to secure the next Manning for his franchise, according to insiders.
Cleveland’s quarterback room is among the most chaotic in the NFL this season. With Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett battling for the starting job, rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel eager to leapfrog veterans, and a front office still holding out hope for an injured Deshaun Watson, there’s no shortage of drama.
Now, reports suggest Haslam is maneuvering to land Arch Manning in next year’s draft-even if it means pushing out one of the team’s current rookie QBs, most likely Shedeur Sanders. While nothing is confirmed, ESPN Cleveland insider Tony Rizzo recently laid out a compelling case.
Haslam is obsessed with Arch
“I know he wouldn’t admit it, and I know it’s nothing they want to talk about, but I’m telling you-the thirst that Jimmy Haslam has for Arch Manning is unmatched. Unmatched,” Rizzo said during a recent episode of his radio show.
Rizzo highlighted Haslam’s close ties to the Manning family, noting that the Browns owner is a major donor to the University of Tennessee–Peyton Manning’s alma mater.
“You know the connection. Haslam donated a ton of money to Tennessee. They have a good relationship with the Manning family,” Rizzo said, pointing to what he calls a telling, if tenuous, link.
As further evidence, he referenced the Browns’ decision to trade down with the Jaguars in the 2024 NFL Draft. The deal saw Cleveland give up the No. 2 overall pick in exchange for Jacksonville’s No. 5 pick and a first-round pick in 2026.
“I don’t think it’s a coincidence they acquired a second first-round pick,” Rizzo added.
What about Shedeur Sanders?
With Arch Manning potentially entering the picture, speculation is growing that the Browns could use Shedeur Sanders-the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders-as a trade chip. Moving him to another team could clear the path for Haslam’s ultimate prize.
If Watson returns healthy and the Browns stick with him under center, Manning could step in as a high-profile backup. But if the front office opts for another rebuild and parts ways with Watson, Arch could become the new face of the franchise.
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