AP Sports SummaryBrief at 2:58 a.m. EDT

Key Takeaways:

• Texas QB Manning denies having a concrete NFL plan.
• Manning’s grandfather suggested a possible 2026 timeline in Austin.
• The quarterback feels it is too soon to shape his professional future.
• The story is part of an AP Sports SummaryBrief.
• Originally published by Herald Bulletin on August 20, 2025.

Introduction

Texas Quarterback Manning has become a focus of recent conversation following an AP Sports SummaryBrief that highlights his stance on a potential NFL career. Speculation arose after his grandfather mentioned a specific timeline for 2026 in Austin, leaving fans to wonder if a professional leap was on the horizon.

Grandfather’s Prediction

Reports indicate that Manning’s grandfather floated the year 2026 as a milestone date. Though this prediction spurred excitement among sports followers, the quarterback himself has yet to endorse any particular schedule for joining the professional ranks.

Manning’s Response

“I’m just not there yet with NFL plans,” Manning suggests, underscoring that the decision to go pro involves more than a family member’s timetable. He points out that football paths can change quickly, and making definitive statements now would be premature.

Broader Context

This update appears as part of a national sports roundup from the Herald Bulletin. Short, factual summaries of key stories are a hallmark of AP Sports Briefs, which consolidate sports headlines from around the country.

Conclusion

While excitement builds around any quarterback from a prominent family, the truth remains that Manning’s plans for the NFL are still up in the air. For now, he intends to focus on his current role and the opportunities ahead, leaving talk of 2026 or beyond a question for the future.