The retirement of Eli Manning is no surprise for New York Giants fans, but rather an emotional moment that conjures up memories dating back to 2004. When Manning was initially drafted by the San Diego Chargers but forced his way to the Giants, most thought he was a stuck up person trying to implement his privilege in the NFL. However, that was not the case.
Eli would go on to be one of the most iconic players in Giants history, winning two Super Bowls and returning his good fortune to the public in terms of charity and community work. Manning and his wife Abby have made a difference in people’s lives across the years; whether they were fans, sick children, or anybody in need, they’ve always pushed to lend a helping hand.
Here are what New York Giants legends and players had to say about Manning’s retirement:
Congratulations on an incredible career. Always a great teammate and friend. Enjoy all the praise because you’ve earned it my friend. Now we can Golf! #ThankYouEli pic.twitter.com/T3LVEMbZUp
— Michael Strahan (@michaelstrahan) January 23, 2020
1??6?? seasons!! Wish it wouldn’t have been so short lived #???! No doubt in my mind my man has tons more left in the tank, but here’s to a great HOF career!?…I’ll be awaiting for Eli’s call for Beer Pong ?. “I’ll bring the bee-ers, I’ll bring the bee-ers” (Mr. Deeda voice)? pic.twitter.com/CpNngWmt8Q
— Golden Tate (@ShowtimeTate) January 22, 2020
"The class that he carried himself with, on and off the field, is gonna be a big part of his legacy."@ShaunOhara60 on Eli Manning's retirement ?? pic.twitter.com/ph58SaYWvE
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) January 22, 2020
A man among men. An outstanding family man and team player. A true class act on the field and off. Welcome to retirement Eli, meet the rest of us on the golf course soon!! pic.twitter.com/bj6VSe4zAB
— Ottis OJ Anderson (@OJAnderson24) January 23, 2020
Many more showed their appreciation for his services, and Giants ownership also offered their gratitude:
“For 16 seasons, Eli Manning defined what it is to be a New York Giant both on and off the field,†said John Mara, the Giants’ president and chief executive officer. “Eli is our only two-time Super Bowl MVP and one of the very best players in our franchise’s history. He represented our franchise as a consummate professional with dignity and accountability. It meant something to Eli to be the Giants quarterback, and it meant even more to us. We are beyond grateful for his contributions to our organization and look forward to celebrating his induction into the Giants Ring of Honor in the near future.â€
“We are proud to have called Eli Manning our quarterback for so many years,†said Steve Tisch, Giants chairman and executive vice president. “Eli was driven to always do what was best for the team. Eli leaves a timeless legacy with two Super Bowl titles on the field and his philanthropic work off the field, which has inspired and impacted so many people. We are sincerely thankful for everything Eli has given our team and community. He will always be a Giant among Giants.â€