This week, Giants Quarterback Eli Manning announced his retirement from professional football. The two-time Super Bowl MVP known for his low-key demeanor said at a press conference held in his honor, “From the very first moment I did it my way. I could not be someone other than who I am.” Manning, who is the brother of former Colts quarterback Peyton Manning and the son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, ends a 16-year career, all spent with the Giants.
Retirement seemed inevitable for Manning after the Giants’ less than stellar past few seasons and their inability to make the playoffs since 2016. Much of that was blamed on Manning. Early into the 2019 season he was benched in favor of rookie Daniel Jones. During the 2018 season star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. was critical of Manning’s play telling ESPN, “Can he still throw it, yeah, but it’s been pretty safe.” Beckham was later traded to the Cleveland Browns.
But now that Manning’s retired and Jones is slated to take the starting quarterback position, Giants fans like Eli again. The City Of New York paid tribute to Manning by lighting the Empire State Building in Giants’ colors red, white and blue with an illuminated No. 10 in Manning’s honor.
Tom Brady surprised the world by showing he has a sense of humor with this witty tweet:
And Giants President Jon Mara ensured Manning’s legacy when he wiped away tears and said, “Yet, we’re also very happy because we get to be here to celebrate that incredible career and we’re also able to witness one of the greatest players in franchise history be able to leave the game on his home terms, having played his whole career as a Giant, something that doesn’t always happen in this business. And if anybody deserved that opportunity, it’s Eli Manning.”
Mara then announced that Manning’s number would be retired as a tribute to the famed QB.
Image via: Twenty 20
