Arch Manning is taking a pay cut.
The Texas quarterback agreed to take a reduced share of the team’s revenue-sharing pool “as part of an effort to help the Longhorn football program do whatever it takes to support a 2026 championship run,” according to On3’s Justin Wells.
The savings “could be used on transfer portal talent or as part of retention efforts” for the Longhorns, per Wells.
This season, athletic programs were capped at $20.5 million in revenue-sharing, although that number is likely to increase next season and beyond.
Arch Manning #16 of the Texas Longhorns looks on during the third quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 28, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Getty Images
Manning, the nephew of NFL icons Peyton and Eli Manning and the grandson of legendary quarterback Archie, is one of the most marketable athletes in college sports.
On3 currently gives Manning an NIL valuation of $5.3 million, which leads all student-athletes.
Although he is getting less money from Texas, Manning still holds NIL deals with brands like Red Bull, Uber and EA Sports, among others.
However, Manning sometimes struggled in a season that started with Heisman hype and the Longhorns ranked No. 1 in the nation.
Texas finished the season 9-3 and out of the College Football Playoff, a disappointing midseason loss against a poor Florida team all but ended their chances of being in the 12-team field.
Manning’s season was underwhelming as well, throwing for 2,942 yards with 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
The news comes after Manning’s father, Cooper Manning, told ESPN earlier this week that his son would return to the Longhorns in 2026 for his junior season despite previously mulling entering the 2026 NFL Draft.
“Arch is playing football at Texas next year,” Cooper said.
Texas finished No. 13 in the end of season rankings and will be on the sidelines for the College Football Playoff, which kicks off on Friday.