Cleveland Browns’ QB Gamble: Is Arch Manning the Real Long-Term Plan?
The Cleveland Browns are currently navigating a quarterback situation that’s…complicated, to say the least. After doubling down on signal-callers in the 2025 NFL Draft and adding veterans through free agency, a surprising report suggests the team’s ultimate target isn’t currently on the roster. Owner Jimmy Haslam’s well-known affinity for the Manning family, coupled with a potential reunion with Nick Saban, could dramatically reshape the Browns’ future, potentially at the expense of recent draft picks like Shedeur Sanders.
Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns throws the ball in a workout during rookie minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on May 09, 2025 in Berea, Ohio.
Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns throws the ball in a workout during rookie minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on May 09, 2025 in Berea, Ohio.
Photo by Aaron M. Sprecher/Getty Images
The Quarterback Conundrum: A Deep Dive
The Browns’ 2025 offseason moves were undeniably aggressive. Drafting Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, trading for Kenny Pickett, and signing Joe Flacco created a crowded quarterback room, even with Deshaun Watson’s hefty contract still in place. While the initial strategy appeared to be building depth and competition, Colin Cowherd’s report throws a wrench into those plans. Cowherd alleges a strong preference for Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, potentially orchestrated with Saban at the helm.
Haslam’s SEC Ties and the Manning Connection
The core of this potential shift lies in Jimmy Haslam’s deep roots in the Southeastern Conference and his close relationship with the Manning family. Cowherd’s sources indicate Haslam “leans heavily” on the Mannings, and Saban’s equally strong ties to both Haslam and the family further fuel the speculation. This isn’t a random whim; it’s a calculated move driven by personal connections and a perceived opportunity to secure a franchise quarterback.
Saban’s Potential Return and the NFL Appeal
Nick Saban’s recent retirement from college football has opened the door to speculation about a potential NFL return. Cowherd suggests Saban would be willing to consider an NFL head coaching position if he could land a top quarterback prospect – mirroring the situation Jon Harbaugh faced when joining the Chargers for Justin Herbert. The allure of building a dynasty with a generational talent like Manning could prove too strong for the legendary coach to resist.
The Cost of a Manning Pursuit
Acquiring Arch Manning won’t be cheap. While he hasn’t yet declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, the Browns have already demonstrated a willingness to trade future assets. The team acquired a second first-round pick in 2026 by trading away the rights to select Travis Hunter, a move that suggests they’re preparing to make a significant leap for a coveted player. This trade, combined with existing draft capital, gives them the ammunition to potentially move up in the draft order.
However, a pursuit of Manning would undoubtedly signal the end of Shedeur Sanders’ chances of becoming the Browns’ long-term answer at quarterback. The investment in Sanders, while not exorbitant, would be effectively nullified, and the team would be forced to reassess its quarterback depth chart.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for the Browns?
The Browns’ current quarterback situation is a fascinating case study in NFL team building and the influence of ownership. While the immediate focus remains on the 2025 season, the long-term implications of Haslam’s potential pursuit of Arch Manning and Nick Saban are significant. The team is essentially running multiple quarterback evaluations simultaneously, hedging its bets while keeping a clear eye on a potentially transformative opportunity.
The next year will be crucial. Manning’s decision to enter the draft, Saban’s willingness to return to coaching, and the Browns’ overall performance will all play a role in shaping the franchise’s future. One thing is certain: the Browns’ quarterback landscape is far from settled.
For more Cleveland Browns and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
