College football has become a massive business, with quarterbacks reaping many of the financial rewards. A recent list from On3’s Pete Nakos highlights just how lucrative the sport has become for these players, particularly when it comes to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
Arch Manning tops the list with an estimated NIL valuation of $6.8 million—well ahead of second-place Carson Beck, who transferred from Georgia to Miami and is valued at $4.3 million. No other quarterback surpasses the $4 million mark, though the rest of the top 10 are all valued at more than $3 million. These figures are based on factors like a player’s popularity, brand value, transfer demand, and social media influence.
With such significant money on the table, it’s no surprise that many quarterbacks—especially those with uncertain professional futures—are seeking to extend their college careers, sometimes even through legal means, something that would’ve been unheard of in the past.
Manning’s high valuation is expected given his position at a top-tier Texas program and his famous family name. Despite the potential earnings, he has chosen a more measured approach to endorsements, only taking select deals and even negotiating separately with EA Sports for inclusion in their video game. The big question now is whether he can meet the sky-high expectations. Texas has made the College Football Playoff the past two years and reached the national title game last season. The only step left is winning it all.
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