New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning officially retired after 16 seasons with the NFL team. He formally announced his retirement at a press conference early Friday after news spread on Wednesday.
Manning, who was drafted in 2004, won the Super Bowl twice as a New York Giant. New York Giants president John Mara made an emotional statement at the press conference.
“It’s sad in one sense because we are seeing the end of a very incredible playing career and saying goodbye to someone who is everything you hope a player could be, both on and off the field,” Mara said.
Manning’s decision to retire arrives on the heels of his contract expiring and being placed as the backup quarterback. Daniel Jones was appointed starter in the third week.
Instead of relocating to another team, Manning chose to end his NFL career.
Following in his brother Peyton Manning’s footsteps, Eli Manning will receive the Bart Starr Award the weekend of Super Bowl LIV on Feb. 1.
The Bart Starr Award is given out every year to a NFL player that “best exemplifies outstanding character and leadership in the home, on the field, and in the community.”
Manning gave a speech reminiscing over his life as an athlete.
“It’s hard to explain the satisfaction, actually the joy, I’ve experienced from being a Giant,” Manning said. “From the very first day, I did it my way…”
He continued, “I’ll miss the people and I’ll miss the life experiences we shared when you win championships you have a special, unbreakable bond with teammates… Once a Giant always a Giant.”
