In a groundbreaking move, Steve Sarkisian, head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team, has orchestrated a historic contract extension for quarterback Arch Manning, securing the talented signal-caller’s commitment to the Longhorns through 2027 with a staggering $30 million salary. The deal, which comes as part of Texas’s broader strategy to dominate college football in the coming years, is one of the largest ever given to a college athlete, and it signals Texas’s intent to solidify their place at the top of the college football ranks.
Manning, the highly coveted five-star recruit and nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, has already made waves in his brief college career. Despite a relatively quiet first year, Manning displayed flashes of brilliance during the 2024 season, earning the starting quarterback role for the 2025 season after the departure of former starter Quinn Ewers. Manning’s combination of athleticism, football IQ, and pedigree made him a perfect fit for Sarkisian’s high-powered offense, and the new contract will make him one of the highest-paid athletes in college sports history.
The $30 million deal, which includes a base salary and various performance-based incentives, is an unprecedented move in college football. The Longhorns’ financial backing of Manning reflects both his potential on the field and the increasing importance of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in the modern college landscape. With this contract, Manning joins a select group of athletes in college sports who have secured lucrative deals while still in school.
Manning’s NIL potential has been a significant factor in this historic deal. After committing to Texas in 2023, Manning quickly became a highly marketable figure, benefiting from his famous family name and immense football potential. He signed a major endorsement deal with Red Bull in early 2025, reportedly valued at $6.6 million, making him one of the highest-earning college athletes in the country. This new contract with Texas ensures that Manning will be able to maximize both his on-field earnings and off-field endorsements while continuing his college football journey.
Steve Sarkisian, who has been at the helm of Texas since 2021, expressed his excitement about the deal. “Arch is the future of Texas football, and securing his commitment long-term is a huge step in continuing the success of this program,” Sarkisian said. “Not only is Arch a remarkable player, but he represents everything we want in a student-athlete—work ethic, leadership, and the ability to perform on the biggest stage. We are thrilled to have him with us for the next few years.”
Manning’s family, led by his father Cooper Manning, also weighed in on the deal. “We’ve always been focused on making the right decision for Arch, both on and off the field,” Cooper Manning stated. “The University of Texas, Coach Sarkisian, and the entire coaching staff have been incredible in their support. This deal will allow Arch to focus on his development and contribute to the success of the Longhorns while also taking full advantage of the opportunities available to him through NIL.”
The new contract for Manning, which is expected to set a precedent for future college athletes, highlights the growing financial power and influence that players now wield in college football. As the sport continues to evolve, deals like Manning’s will likely become more common, marking a new era for both college athletics and the professionalization of college sports. For now, Texas fans have a lot to look forward to, as Manning prepares to lead the Longhorns into the 2025 season with one of the most lucrative deals in college sports history behind him.
