Texas TE Gunnar Helm on QB Arch Manning: “He’s Going to Live Up to the Hype”
When Arch Manning committed to the University of Texas, the college football world exploded with excitement. The name Manning carries a weight of expectation, and as the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the 2023 class, Arch was seen as the next generational talent ready to take college football by storm.
Since his arrival in Austin, Manning has been in the spotlight, though he’s yet to fully showcase his potential on the field. However, if you ask Texas tight end Gunnar Helm, there’s no doubt that the young quarterback is destined for greatness.
“To be honest with you, I think he is going to live up to the hype, absolutely,” Helm said. “Arch is one of my good buddies off the field. His whole life has been football.”
Helm’s confidence in Manning is not just based on reputation or potential—it comes from firsthand experience, seeing the young quarterback grind every day behind the scenes.
The Manning Legacy and Arch’s Unique Journey
The Manning name is synonymous with quarterback excellence. Arch is the grandson of Archie Manning, a legendary signal-caller at Ole Miss who went on to have a successful NFL career. He’s also the nephew of Peyton Manning and Eli Manning, two Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks who left their mark on the NFL.
With that kind of pedigree, expectations for Arch were sky-high before he ever took a snap. However, unlike his uncles, he made a bold decision—choosing Texas over traditional Manning family destinations like Tennessee or Ole Miss.
That decision sent shockwaves through the college football world, as it signaled that Steve Sarkisian and his staff were building something special in Austin. But with that commitment came immense pressure. Could Arch live up to his name? Could he bring Texas football back to national prominence?
Gunnar Helm’s Perspective: What Makes Arch Special?
Gunnar Helm has spent countless hours with Manning, both on and off the field. As one of Texas’ top returning tight ends, he’s had a close-up look at Arch’s work ethic, preparation, and mentality.
According to Helm, what separates Manning from other quarterbacks isn’t just his name—it’s his dedication and approach to the game.
“Arch is one of my good buddies off the field,” Helm said. “His whole life has been football. But what’s crazy is how hard he works at it. He’s always in the facility, always watching film, always asking questions.”
While Manning arrived at Texas as a five-star recruit, he didn’t take a shortcut to the top. Instead of being handed the starting job, he’s sat behind Quinn Ewers, learning and developing under Sarkisian’s system.
Helm believes that patience and Manning’s ability to absorb knowledge will pay off when his time comes.
“He’s got all the tools,” Helm continued. “But what impresses me is his attitude. He doesn’t act like some big-time recruit. He’s humble, he listens, and he works his tail off.”
What Does the Future Hold for Arch Manning?
As Texas prepares for the 2025 season, the biggest question is when Arch Manning will take over as QB1. With Quinn Ewers returning for another year, Manning might have to wait one more season before he gets his shot. However, there’s always the possibility that he pushes Ewers in spring practice and forces Sarkisian to make a tough decision.
Regardless of the timeline, Helm believes that when Arch’s moment comes, he will be more than ready.
“People are going to see how special he is,” Helm said. “He’s got the arm, the mobility, the vision—it’s all there. But the biggest thing? He’s got that Manning mindset.”
The “Manning mindset” that Helm refers to is a mix of preparation, confidence, and leadership—all qualities that Arch has displayed from the moment he stepped on campus.
One of the biggest misconceptions about Manning is that he’s just a product of his last name. But according to Helm and others inside the program, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
“He’s not just riding on his family name,” Helm said. “He’s earned everything he’s got.”
Texas Football’s Future with Manning at the Helm
While Quinn Ewers remains the present, Arch Manning is undoubtedly the future. Texas fans have been waiting over a decade for a quarterback who can bring them back to national championship contention—and many believe Arch is that guy.
The Longhorns’ move to the SEC in 2024 will make the challenge even greater, but it also gives Manning a chance to prove himself on the biggest stage. He’ll face defenses from Alabama, Georgia, LSU, and Florida—a level of competition that will test just how ready he is for the NFL.
Helm, for one, has no doubt that Manning will be more than up for the challenge.
“I see him every day. I know what he’s capable of. When his time comes, he’s going to be ready—and he’s going to make Texas proud.”
Final Thoughts: Will Arch Manning Live Up to the Hype?
Ever since Arch Manning committed to Texas, the question has been asked over and over again: Can he live up to the hype?
If you ask Gunnar Helm, the answer is an unequivocal yes.
- His work ethic is elite.
- His football IQ is off the charts.
- He’s humble, patient, and ready to learn.
In a world where five-star quarterbacks often transfer at the first sign of adversity, Manning has taken the long-term approach. He’s learning, developing, and waiting for his moment.
And when that moment comes?
“Watch out,” Helm said with a smile. “It’s going to be something special.”