5-star QB Arch Manning reportedly makes surprise visit to ACC school

Virginia is hosting 5-star quarterback prospect Arch Manning this weekend, according to a report.

That’s per 247Sports’ Jacquie Franciulli, who notes that Manning arrived on campus on Friday.

This is a big surprise, as Manning had reportedly narrowed his list of potential programs to a select few. He’s visited Alabama and Georgia in recent weeks and has also been courted by programs like Texas, Oklahoma and Ole Miss.

The reason for the visit is likely the arrival of new head coach Tony Elliott, who previously recruited Manning at Clemson. The Tigers have fallen out of Manning’s consideration since Elliott’s departure.

Additionally, Manning’s mother — Ellen Heidingsfelder — attended the University of Virginia.

Manning is ranked as the No. 1 overall player in the country for the class of 2023, according to 247Sports Composite rankings

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Virginia has proven to be a great spot for quarterbacks in recent years. If not for a late-season injury and a canceled bowl game, Brennan Armstrong likely would have broken the ACC’s single-season passing record in 2021.

Armstrong is expected to lead the Cavaliers again in 2022, but the program’s future at quarterback is uncertain beyond that point.

Manning is the nephew of former NFL quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning.