ESPN Predicts Arch Manning’s Landing Spot in 2027 NFL Draft

ESPN has projected a notable landing spot for Arch Manning in its early look at the 2027 NFL Draft, sending the highly regarded quarterback to the Arizona Cardinals. The prediction comes well before draft season begins, but it adds an intriguing possibility to the growing conversation surrounding the next potential franchise quarterback.

The Cardinals could become an appealing destination if the team enters the 2027 offseason searching for a long-term answer at quarterback. Manning’s combination of pedigree, physical tools and high-profile college career has already placed him among the players expected to generate significant attention when he eventually becomes eligible for the draft.

Arizona’s potential interest would also depend heavily on how its current roster develops over the next year. Quarterback performance, team success and draft positioning could all influence whether the Cardinals are in position to select Manning or would need to make an aggressive move to acquire a pick near the top of the first round.

The possibility of Manning landing in Arizona also creates an interesting fit from a roster-building perspective. A young quarterback entering an organization with established offensive pieces could have an opportunity to develop within a system designed around his strengths, while the team could build its future around a highly touted passer.

ESPN Predicts Arizona Cardinals Selecting Arch Manning in 2027 NFL Draft

Arizona was projected to be Manning’s landing spot in the 2027 Draft. This is detailed more in an analysis by Jordan Reid for ESPN.

Even though Carson Beck, Arizona’s third-round pick in April, has looked good this preseason, his presence wouldn’t prevent the Cardinals from looking at a QB here — especially with veteran Jacoby Brissett’s contract expiring after the season. Manning recovered from a slow start to 2025, with his development taking a big leap in mid-October. If he can build on that momentum and improve his accuracy on underneath throws, he has the physical tools to be picked at this spot and join 2026 first-round running back Jeremiyah Love to form Arizona’s backfield of the future.

Much can change before the 2027 draft, particularly with an entire college season still ahead and the NFL landscape constantly shifting. Manning will have to continue developing and producing at the collegiate level, while Arizona must determine whether its long-term plans eventually point toward another quarterback.

For now, the projection serves as an early snapshot rather than a prediction that can be treated as definitive. If Manning continues to meet the expectations surrounding his potential and the Cardinals remain in need of a franchise quarterback, however, Arizona could become one of the most closely watched destinations in the 2027 draft cycle.