The brother of Arch Manning talks about his life with his brother and his hopes for Texas Longhorns football in 2025.

As the Texas Longhorns prepare for the 2025 football season, the excitement surrounding the program has reached new heights, and much of that buzz is centered around one of the most famous recruits in college football history—Arch Manning. As the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch’s commitment to Texas in 2023 turned heads nationwide. However, while Arch has been the focus of much of the media coverage, there’s another member of the Manning family whose voice is also being heard as the Longhorns set their sights on a national championship: Arch’s brother, Cooper Manning.

Cooper, who has long been a key figure in the Manning family’s inner circle, has his own unique perspective on growing up alongside Arch and his famous relatives. His insights into their relationship as brothers and their shared love for football provide a refreshing and personal view of what it’s like to be a Manning in the public eye. With the Longhorns’ football program brimming with expectations, Cooper is not only reflecting on his own journey but also looking ahead to the impact his brother Arch will have at Texas.

In this article, we will explore Cooper Manning’s thoughts on his relationship with Arch, his experience with the Texas Longhorns, and his hopes for the program in 2025 and beyond. We will delve into how the Manning family has influenced Arch’s development as a player, what Cooper sees as Arch’s biggest strengths, and what it means to be a part of a legacy that spans generations of football greatness.

The Manning Family Legacy: A Foundation Built on Football

The Manning family is perhaps the most iconic family in football history, with both Peyton and Eli having achieved monumental success in the NFL. Their achievements on the field, along with their leadership and sportsmanship, have made them two of the most revered quarterbacks of all time. The Manning name carries weight, not just because of the brothers’ impressive stats, but also because of the family’s commitment to the game of football.

While Cooper Manning, the eldest of the Manning brothers, did not have the same football career as Peyton and Eli, his story is an important part of the family’s legacy. As a young man, Cooper was a promising wide receiver at the University of Mississippi. However, an unfortunate injury to his spine ended his playing career prematurely. Despite this setback, Cooper remained closely connected to the game of football, becoming a successful businessman and television personality.

In addition to his professional success, Cooper has always been a supportive and influential presence in the lives of his younger brothers. His relationship with Peyton and Eli has remained strong, and his mentorship has played a key role in shaping their careers. For Arch, Cooper’s influence has been equally significant. As the eldest brother, Cooper has served as a role model and a source of guidance throughout Arch’s life and football journey.

Growing Up with Arch Manning: A Brotherly Bond

For Cooper, growing up alongside Peyton and Eli was an experience that shaped his understanding of football and family. As a child, he witnessed the drive, discipline, and focus that both his brothers exhibited, which would go on to define their professional careers. He learned from their experiences, and in turn, he imparted his own wisdom to his younger siblings.

However, what truly sets Cooper apart from the other members of the Manning family is his role as a mentor and older brother to Arch. Arch, now a highly regarded quarterback at Texas, has had the unique privilege of growing up with three football legends as part of his family. It’s clear that Cooper has had a significant impact on Arch’s life, not just as a football player but as a person.

In interviews, Cooper has spoken fondly of the bond he shares with Arch, noting that their relationship has always been grounded in mutual respect and admiration. As the oldest of the four Manning children, Cooper has seen Arch’s development both as a football player and as a young man, and he couldn’t be prouder of his younger brother.

Cooper describes Arch as a grounded, humble individual who has a deep love for the game. According to Cooper, Arch’s passion for football runs deeper than just following in the family footsteps—it’s about being true to himself and his own love for the sport. This is an important distinction, as Arch could have easily been overwhelmed by the pressure of living up to the Manning name. Instead, he has embraced the challenge with a calm demeanor and a strong sense of purpose.

“Arch has always been a great kid,” Cooper has said. “He’s not trying to live up to anyone’s expectations except his own. He has a very clear understanding of who he is and what he wants to achieve. It’s impressive to see how grounded he is in a world that can be so overwhelming.”

The bond between the two brothers is more than just one built on shared experiences; it’s one founded on deep mutual respect. Cooper sees Arch’s natural talent and ability to process the game at a level that exceeds his years, but he also sees something more: a quiet confidence that allows Arch to stay focused, even amidst the media frenzy and attention that come with being a Manning.

For Cooper, one of the most exciting things about watching Arch grow as a player is seeing how Arch applies the lessons learned from his uncles and his dad to his own development. Cooper notes that Arch approaches football with the same intensity and work ethic that defined Peyton and Eli’s careers. However, what sets Arch apart is his ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations, which is a hallmark of elite quarterbacks.

“He’s calm under pressure. He doesn’t get rattled,” Cooper says. “That’s one of the biggest things I’ve seen in Arch: his ability to stay cool, stay focused, and make the right decision when it matters most. And that’s a trait you can’t teach.”

The Longhorns in 2025: Hopes and Expectations for Texas Football

With Arch now set to take the helm at quarterback for the Texas Longhorns in 2025, Cooper is excited to see his younger brother continue the family’s legacy at the collegiate level. Texas has long been a program with high expectations, and the Longhorns’ recruitment of Arch was a clear sign that they are ready to compete for a national title in the coming years. For Cooper, there’s an understanding of just how important this next chapter is for both Arch and the program.

Texas is poised to contend for championships, and Cooper is optimistic about the direction in which the program is heading. He acknowledges that Arch will face challenges as a freshman quarterback, but he also believes that Texas offers the perfect environment for Arch to thrive.

“Texas is the right place for Arch,” Cooper says. “The Longhorns have a lot of talent, great coaching, and a fantastic fanbase. Everything is there for him to succeed. The program is on the rise, and Arch is ready for the challenge.”

Cooper is also quick to point out that while Arch’s name might bring an added layer of pressure, it’s not something that bothers his brother. “Arch doesn’t get caught up in the pressure,” Cooper explains. “He’s been around this environment for a long time, and he knows what it takes to succeed. He’s ready to take on whatever comes his way.”

The Longhorns’ offense in 2025 will be centered around Arch, and Cooper sees the potential for big things. Arch is not only a gifted passer but also an intelligent player who can read defenses and make quick decisions. With a talented supporting cast of receivers, a solid offensive line, and a defense that can give Texas the balance it needs, the Longhorns are well-equipped to make a run at the college football playoff in 2025.

Looking Toward the Future: Cooper’s Vision for Texas Football

As much as Cooper enjoys watching Arch take the field, he also sees the broader picture for Texas football. The Longhorns have long been one of the most storied programs in college football, but recent seasons have been marked by inconsistency. Cooper is confident that Arch, along with the coaching staff and the talented players around him, will help Texas return to its former glory.

“The future is bright for Texas,” Cooper says. “With Arch leading the way and the great players around him, I think we’re going to see something special. It’s going to take time, but the foundation is there. Coach Sarkisian has built a great team, and I think Texas is on the right track.”

Looking beyond 2025, Cooper is excited about the possibilities for Arch and the Longhorns. He knows that Arch’s journey will have its ups and downs, but he’s confident that his brother’s work ethic and composure will guide him through the challenges ahead. “There will be growing pains, but that’s part of the process,” Cooper adds. “What matters is how you respond, and Arch is the kind of person who will respond the right way.”