Peyton Manning retired from the National Football League after winning Super Bowl 50 with Denver, his second championship during his career.
Manning owned numerous NFL records when he retired, becoming one of the league’s most revered and decorated players.
The former University of Tennessee quarterback was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Sunday in Canton, Ohio.
During his enshrinement speech, the former Vol discussed his desire for future generations to have an opportunity in enjoying the game he loves.
“We have an obligation to make this game better and help it grow,” Manning said during his enshrinement speech. “A legacy is only worthwhile when there is a future to fuel.”
Manning not only spoke on the future of the game, but he also invoked its past.
“John Madden said that these busts whisper to each other at night,” Manning said of the Hall of Famer. “I know they do.”
For Manning, the game has always been a family affair.
His father, Archie, presented him for his enshrinement. Archie Manning played for New Orleans and the Houston Oilers after a collegiate career at Ole Miss.
Archie Manning’s youngest son, Eli Manning, played at Ole Miss and won two Super Bowl championships with the New York Giants.
Cooper Manning, Archie Manning’s other son, had his football career end prematurely due to injury.
During his enshrinement speech, Manning said he had “the two best brothers anybody could ever have” and his father was his “favorite quarterback and my hero.”
Manning, a five-time NFL MVP, also expressed gratitude for support he received from teammates, coaches, fans and support staff. The former Vol mentioned he was honored to be reunited with Indianapolis teammates Marshall Faulk, Marvin Harrison and Edgerrin James, head coach Tony Dungy and general manager Bill Polian.
Manning also noted he was happy to be in the Hall of Fame with former Broncos Steve Atwater, John Elway and John Lynch.
“There’s room for more Colts and more Broncos in here,” Manning said.
In closing, Manning said “God bless you, and God bless football.”
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