Arch Manning’s father shares influence of Super Bowl-winning uncles

Those who think Arch Manning’s uncles, Peyton and Eli, constantly coached him growing up would be mistaken.

In a story published Wednesday, Arch Manning’s father, Cooper, told The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman the Texas Longhorns quarterback rarely trained with his uncles.

“As much as they are great influences, they weren’t around a ton,” Cooper Manning said. “I don’t think Eli ever saw Arch play in a high school or college football game. He is coming in this year. Peyton would come in for a game occasionally. Arch would see them at the Manning Passing Academy and may see ’em at Mardi Gras, but that’s like five nights in a year, so it’s hard to say whether he’s like them or like someone else.’

“I do think you can pick up little pieces of people that you like. Arch is probably just as likely to pick up a habit of [Kansas City Chiefs QB] Patrick Mahomes as he is of Eli with things you just like about people and the way they handle themselves. And fortunately, anybody who watches anything can get more exposure to players they like and want to mimic.”

Peyton and Eli Manning were both amid their NFL careers during Arch Manning’s childhood. 

Peyton Manning starred for the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos from 1998-2015, winning two Super Bowls. Eli Manning played for the New York Giants from 2004-19, also hoisting two Lombardi Trophies. 

That would explain why Arch Manning, 21, doesn’t play like his uncles. As a part of an NIL (name, image and likeness) deal with Vuori, the Texas QB said Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen is “one of his biggest role models.”