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Longhorns Daily News: Will Texas backup QB KJ Lacey succeed Arch Manning in 2027?
TL;DR
Texas backup QB KJ Lacey is being speculated as the potential successor to Arch Manning in 2027. Manning's decision to enter the NFL Draft after the 2026 season remains uncertain.
Key points
- KJ Lacey is a true freshman quarterback for Texas Longhorns
- Arch Manning's NFL Draft decision is uncertain
- Lacey was previously third-string but showed development
KJ LaceyArch ManningTexas Longhorns
AUSTIN, TEXAS - APRIL 18: KJ Lacey Jr. #9 of the Texas Longhorns looks to pass the ball during the Texas Spring Football Game at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on April 18, 2026 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Scott Wachter/Getty Images for ONIT) | Getty Images for ONIT
It’s unclear whether returning starter Arch Manning will declare for the NFL Draft following the 2026 college football season, foregoing the incoming redshirt junior’s final season of Longhorns eligibility.
Even so, the talking sports heads and blogging bros can’t get enough speculation as to who will eventually replace Manning. And word out of the 40 Acres now that the spring game has come and went is that the answer to who’s up next is… true freshman KJ Lacey, who has stood throughout the preseason thus far.
From Sports Illustrated: “Lacey entered his true freshman season buried on the depth chart as the third-string quarterback, completing just one pass all year. Still, even late last season, head coach Steve Sarkisian made it clear the staff was encouraged by his development.”
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Q&A
What are the chances of Arch Manning declaring for the NFL Draft in 2027?
It is currently unclear if Arch Manning will declare for the NFL Draft after the 2026 season.
Who is KJ Lacey and what is his role with the Texas Longhorns?
KJ Lacey is a true freshman quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, currently positioned as the backup QB behind Arch Manning.
What did head coach Steve Sarkisian say about KJ Lacey's development?
Head coach Steve Sarkisian expressed encouragement regarding KJ Lacey's development, despite him being third on the depth chart last season.
