‘I Want Marshall to Play in Every Game’ — Peyton Manning’s Son Rises Through Ranks as Baylor HS Coach Drops Promising Update

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

Peyton Manning’s son is beginning to attract attention at Baylor School, where a carefully managed introduction to varsity football has given him an early chance to learn the demands of the position.

The freshman quarterback remains years away from receiving an official national recruiting ranking, but interest around his development continues to grow. Now, Baylor’s coaching staff has made its intentions clear about how it plans to prepare him for a bigger role.

Peyton Manning’s Son Gets Clear Path to Bigger Baylor Role

The player drawing that attention is Marshall Manning, the 15-year-old son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning. He made his varsity debut for Baylor School against Brentwood Academy, entering for two planned snaps in the second quarter of a 38-20 victory.

Marshall completed his first pass for a first down before handing the ball off and giving way to senior quarterback Keegan Croucher. The limited appearance was not a random cameo, though. Baylor coach Erik Kimrey has already mapped out a longer development plan for the freshman.

START PREPARING:PFN’s Free College Fantasy Simulator

“I know we planned it. I want Marshall to play in every game this year, even if it’s just like two plays like that. Hopefully, it’ll be a lot more, but I felt like it, you know, we need him next year, and he needs to get ready,” Kimrey said.

Kimrey explained that giving backups playing time in non-region games has been part of his coaching approach. In Marshall’s case, those opportunities carry added importance because Croucher is a senior who has committed to Ole Miss.

This makes the current season an early preparation period for Marshall, with the possibility of becoming Baylor’s full-time quarterback in 2027. Rather than rushing him into the spotlight, the coaching staff can gradually increase his responsibilities while he adjusts to varsity football.

Croucher has also offered strong support for the young quarterback. The highly regarded senior described Marshall as a player with significant potential while highlighting the relationship they have developed through practice.

“That was the plan for Marshall to go in the second quarter, kind of make his debut, and, you know, the kid’s gonna be a beast, just a freshman, 15 years old,” Croucher said.

He also praised Marshall’s work ethic and explained how the two challenge each other during practices.

PREDICT THE CFB SEASON:PFN’s Free CFB Playoff Predictor

“We’re hard on each other. He holds me accountable, I hold him accountable in practice. So, we have a really good bond together, and, you know, it’s only gonna grow, and I can’t wait to watch him play in the future,” Croucher said.

Marshall remains unranked by major national recruiting services because he belongs to the 2030 class. Still, local evaluators have already taken notice, with The Tennessean ranking him as Tennessee’s No. 1 freshman entering the season.

He also wears No. 16, the same number his father wore at Tennessee. For now, Baylor is focused on giving him experience rather than putting the weight of expectations on a 15-year-old quarterback.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos