“Why Am I a First-Round Draft Pick? I’m Rodgers” – Aaron Rodgers’ Younger Brother Stuns Stephen A. Smith with Bold Arch Manning Take

ESPN's college football expert Jordan Rodgers doesn't view Arch Manning as a Top 10 prospect in 2027 NFL Draft.

“Why Am I a First-Round Draft Pick? I’m Rodgers” – Aaron Rodgers’ Younger Brother Stuns Stephen A. Smith with Bold Arch Manning Take

Arch Manning (Image via IMAGO)

Jordan Rodgers took another dig at Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning. Rodgers refused to call Manning “generational,” or a potential first overall draft pick. To support his theory, Rodgers provided an unusual explanation.

In a recent segment of ESPN’s First Take, Rodgers joined Stephen A. Smith to discuss Arch Manning’s future with Texas and his credentials as a top quarterback in next year’s draft. Rodgers argued that Manning doesn’t have elite arm talent or is athletic enough to be considered a top first-round draft pick.

Rodgers upped the intensity of his attack by hinting that Manning has yet to prove that he deserves a spot among the best 10 players in college football. Smith quickly interjected.

You trying to tell me a Manning is going to fall out of the top-10, at the quarterback spot? I mean, I need you tested right now.

Stephen A. Smith said

Rodgers implied that having the “Manning” surname doesn’t guarantee Arch would be drafted in the first round. As proof, Rodgers gave his own example.

Then why wasn’t I a first-round draft pick? I’m a Rodgers!

Jordan Rodgers said

For context, Jordan Rodgers is the younger brother of Super Bowl winner and four-time NFL MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, Jordan went undrafted and was out of the league very quickly.

Despite his apparent criticism of Arch Manning, Rodgers confided that he didn’t possess the same level of talent Manning has.

Followed by me saying I wasn’t good enough, Arch is…lol. So that’s the main difference. But again, he should be drafted on his tape and skills. Which will warrant a 1st Rd pick, but TBD on top 10.

Rodgers wrote in the comments

This wasn’t the first time Jordan Rodgers has gone after Arch Manning. In an episode of Get Up, Rodgers criticized Manning’s accuracy and pocket awareness. Rodgers doubled down on his statement in a lengthy tweet.

Keep listening before you freak out and think I’m Bashing Arch. Love Arch, but in the context of a #1 overall pick he doesn’t have the can’t-miss generational physical tools. But he will play himself into a 1st Rd pick as his mechanics and footwork continue to improve like we saw [in the] 2nd half of last year. He’ll be in NY at the Heisman ceremony. Book it.

Rodgers wrote
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Texas head coach backs Arch Manning to be a success

Manning spent the first two seasons of his college career as backup to Quinn Ewers. Even after he performed well when Ewers was injured, Texas went back to Ewers after he recovered.

Why Am I a First-Round Draft Pick I'm Rodgers - Aaron Rodgers' Younger Brother Stuns Stephen A. Smith With Bold Arch Manning Take
Arch Manning (Image via IMAGO)

Manning finally received the QB1 job in 2025. He led Texas to a 10-3 finish and a victory in the Citrus Bowl against Michigan. Manning threw for 248 completions for 3163 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. He also rushed for 10 touchdowns.

I think last season he found out a lot about himself. Any time we’re faced with adversity and we get on the other side of it, you gain confidence. I think you see a different leader in him. The work ethic hasn’t changed, but I think the ability to lead vocally is much different than before and I think he’s very comfortable with who he is.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian said on SEC Media Day. (H/T Yahoo Sports)

Manning’s first game of the 2026 season is against the Texas State Bobcats before taking on Ohio State.

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