Eli Manning has had one of the most well-known NFL careers to date. The former New York Giant blessed the football fields since 2004, and just recently announced his retirement in every Giants fan’s heart – January 24, 2020. Man, what a run it had been!
As a Giants fan myself, I was shocked and heartbroken when news of his retirement broke. I remember watching him play with an admiration for his drive and determination. Even in games when the odds were not in the Giants’ favor, Eli Manning somehow managed to pull out a win. It was kind of his thing, honestly.
He could have been elated and excused himself straight away after his first Superbowl win in 2008, but he decided to stay and fight for another Lombardi Trophy in 2012 and was as successful with it. He ended up becoming the only quarterback to defeat Tom Brady and The Patriots in two Super Bowls. Damn, that was a sight to behold.
The 2018 season was Eli’s last official season with The Giants. It didn’t begin well as he got benched, replaced by rookie QB Daniel Jones. I remember that feeling of disbelief when the league play began and Eli was on the sidelines. It was even eerie to see him stand next to the coach and not compete alongside his players.
People started to doubt whether Eli would return to the team or even the league ever again. And I must admit, thoughts of his retirement started crossing my mind. Little did we know that just two years later, he would announce his retirement.
Throughout his 16 years-long NFL career, Eli was the Giants starter. 16 years- that’s longer than most NFL careers last. I mean, just think about it; some of the greatest NFL players only made it to this figure, and Eli surpassed it. Now, that’s something to get excited about!
It’s unbelievable how he managed to stay so consistent and successful for so long. Neither injuries nor adversities could keep Him away from the game and by the end of this historic ride, we knew the future Hall of Famer deserved every single accolade and honor bestowed upon him – from the Super Bowl MVP Awards, Comeback Player of the year and Walter Payton Man of the year to the 16 Pro Bowl Nominations.
And I’m certainly not the only one devastated by his departure. Countless numbers of people, from present to past teammates, coaches, owners, reporters, fans, and family, called for Eli’s achievements throughout the league’s history.
What I truly most admire about Eli is that in spite of all the successes he received, there was no sense of pride or arrogance in him. He was a humble, family man that remained the same no matter what the situation. Eli had never allowed his successes or failures define him and that, in my opinion, is a true sign of greatness.
He may have officially removed his jersey, but his impact and legacy will forever remain within the NFL. The significance of Eli on the Giants — and the entire league — cannot be overstated. To have had the opportunity to keep watching Eli’s commitment to the game all those years was such a blessing.
The league isn’t the same anymore without Eli. While we can’t go back and relive some of his most memorable performances, we can always look back and appreciate what Eli brought to the game of football.