Fansided’s Chris believes Arch Manning would be the perfect bridge QB for Alabama in 2025 before transitioning to incoming 5-star Keelon Russell in 2026. Landers pitched Russell taking a redshirt as Manning defects from Texas via the transfer portal and takes over Crimson Tide head football coach Kalen DeBoer’s offense.
“DeBoer and Jalen Milroe has been a bit of an uncomfortable fit all season long, creating bundles of big plays but just as many head-scratching mistakes that have cost the Tide in losses to Vanderbilt and Tennessee. DeBoer favors something more precise at the quarterback position, someone who can quickly go through progressions and make an accurate throw — just like Michael Penix Jr. did while taking Washington to the national title game last season,” Landers wrote.
“Milroe, for all his physical gifts, is never going to be that guy. Manning fits the bill, though, and Bama would be crazy not to make a run at him if he becomes available in the portal. Manning seriously considered the Tide out of high school, and while DeBoer has an elite QB recruit in the class of 2025 in Keelon Russell, that should be no object here: Manning just needs one year as the starter to show out, then he’ll be off for the NFL by the time Russell has used up his redshirt. And if Manning is looking for a place to showcase his talent, there’s no better system than this one.”
Manning leaving Austin isn’t all that likely, with Quinn Ewers projected to declare for the NFL after the 2024 season. Even if Ewers stayed, Manning would have a good chance to outplay him in the spring and force Ewers to find a third FBS home.
Never say never in the NIL era, though. With Bryce Underwood flipping to Michigan with a contract even higher than the reported $10.5 million figure, Manning may want another pay raise.
A program like Alabama would go for broke for a QB like Manning. If Russell isn’t ready for SEC defenses from the jump, sliding Manning a blank check and having him name his price is a surefire way for the Crimson Tide to stay on top post-Nick Saban’s retirement.