According to a report by NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning told friends he plans to retire after Super Bowl 50.
“The reality is he let the cat out of the bag a little bit,” Rapoport said per Austin Knoblauch of NFL.com. “I also know he has told close friends that he expects this to be his last game as well.”
Much speculation as to Manning’s retirement has arisen ever since whispered to Patriots’ head coach Bill Belichick that this might be his “last rodeo.”
Although since his comment was picked up on mic rather than left private, Manning has yet to confirm or deny his retirement plans when asked by the press.
With Super Bowl media day kicking off on Monday evening and Manning in the spotlight, he is surely bound to be hit up for multiple questions about his future. If he remains mum, it may be possible that Manning is waiting for the outcome of Sunday’s big game to come clean with his decision.
A second Super Bowl ring would certainly be the perfect sign-off gift to Manning’s incredible record-breaking 18-year career.