Spring practice has come to an end and summer workouts are closing. That means it’s time to take stock of where Texas stands, particularly among their SEC foes. We’ll roll through every position over the next few weeks and show where the Longhorns rank, starting with the signal callers. We’ll focus on just the starters for the QBs, but the rest of the rankings will be based on the full room.
Here is how I see the QB position in the SEC heading into this season:
This is a very easy No. 1 on the list to me. Chambliss was one of the best QBs in the conference a year ago and is coming off a special CFP run. His ability to extend plays and improvise is second to none and he is also the most proven winner on this list. There are many strong QBs in the SEC this season but none stack up to Chambliss heading into the season.
This is where I’d place Arch Manning. Now, I do think you could slide as low as 5th or 6th and I wouldn’t argue too aggressively. I believe the final month of the season is much closer to what you’ll see in 2026 from Manning. He still has steps that need to be taken but the arrow is firmly pointing up for #16 and there’s a real world where he’s the comfortable No. 1 by season’s end.
To me, Gunner Stockton is one of the more underrated QBs in the country. He led Georgia to another SEC title and CFP berth last season, falling in a true QB duel to the No. 1 QB on this list. He still has steps to take, particularly throwing the ball, but brings great toughness, athleticism and confidence to the table. I expect another strong season from the Bulldogs signal caller.
Lane Kiffin found his QB this offseason and I believe he’s a very good one. Leavitt brings remarkable athleticism, arm strength and big play ability to the table. There are some inconsistencies that need to be smoothed out but Kiffin tends to do that for his QBs. I expect a strong season from Leavitt with the upside to be lifting the Heisman trophy in December.
Mateer started last season as strong as any QB in the country before his thumb injury. That, combined with some mechanical inconsistencies, his play dropped off and the Sooners fell to Alabama in the CFP. If Mateer is fully healthy, he can have a special season and lead Oklahoma back to the CFP in 2026.
This is the player that might have the most potential for improvement this season. Reed was brilliant at times and was pedestrian other times in 2025. If he can improve as a passer, he could fly up this list and become one of the top QBs in the country. Wherever he goes in 2025, that’s where the Aggies will go.
You could argue this is the most raw talent of anyone in the conference. Sellers is one of the best athletes at the QB position in the country with elite rushing ability. He’s struggled at times with consistency passing, which has been a product of his surroundings as much as him. The Gamecocks have added major pieces this offseason and we’ll see if Sellers can find his way back to his 2024 level of play.
Alex Golesh made his way from USF up to Auburn this offseason and he brought his talented QB with him. Brown is one the best dual-threat QBs in the country and is a load to tackle at 231lbs. The Tigers could easily become the story of the season if Brown can find his groove early in 2026.
Rest of my rankings:
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Post-Spring SEC QB Rankings: How does Arch Manning stack up?
Reporting by Tommy Bresee, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
