Saints' QB Dilemma: Wait for Arch Manning in 2026 or Draft Now?

The Manning family’s indelible mark on New Orleans football culture runs deep. Not only is Archie Manning remembered fondly as a saint-like figure in the city, but his lineage continued to shine brightly when Peyton, Eli, and Cooper demonstrated their own prodigious talents at Isidore Newman School. This rich legacy of gridiron achievements makes the idea of Arch Manning, the latest quarterback prodigy from this celebrated clan, potentially joining the New Orleans Saints by 2026 a narrative that’s rich with emotion and community pride.

Drafting Arch Manning would not just add another star to the Manning constellation in New Orleans; it would be akin to LeBron James returning to play basketball in Cleveland—an event of heartwarming, almost mythic proportions. There’s a palpable buzz surrounding the possibility, and it’s crystal clear that the Saints are indeed pondering this incredibly compelling scenario. As a football dynasty with strong Crescent City roots looks towards reinforcing its future, the dream of Arch Manning under center is tantalizing, and certainly one of the most intriguing story lines heading into the next NFL draft cycle LEARN MOREningar. Even amidst the complexities and uncertainties of modern college football, where quarterbacks have lucrative alternatives to entering the NFL, the prospect of the youngest Manning returning to continue the family tradition is a storyline that has everyone in New Orleans hoping and waiting. With each passing day, the anticipation builds, fueling a communal longing that transcends mere sports fandom. But as we’ve learned, in the game of football, as in life, dreams often dance on the edge of reality.AdvertisementAnd perhaps the Saints approach the draft with that in mind, on multiple levels.Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

If there’s a season to decide to be bad, in hopes of getting a franchise changer at quarterback in a year, this might be a good time to do it.

Tanking doesn’t happen in the NFL, not in the way most people talk about it. You can’t tell coaches or players to not do their best. But teams can make personnel decisions that aren’t necessarily conducive to winning. Passing on quarterback in the draft and letting Spencer Rattler start all season would be that type of move. If the final outcome of a terrible season is getting a difference-making quarterback, and especially a massively hyped one from New Orleans, Saints fans probably wouldn’t be too upset.Advertisement