Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning will announce his retirement on Monday, ending what has been one of the best careers for a quarterback in the history of the NFL.
The No. 1 overall pick of the Indianapolis Colts back in 1998, Manning has been one of the faces of the league for almost two decades.
A squeaky-clean image for the vast majority of his career, Manning also acted as an ambassador to the game he loved.
In response to Manning’s impending retirement announcement, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement on Sunday:
“Peyton Manning’s extraordinary career was driven by his talent, an incredible work ethic, and an unwavering desire to be the best and ended so perfectly for him with a Super Bowl victory,” Goodell said in a statement. “Peyton’s competitive fire and love of the game made him a legendary player who thrilled fans for a generation. He has served as a great representative of the NFL both on the field and in his community. We are forever grateful for Peyton’s unmatched contributions to the game and know that his success will continue in the next phase of his life.”
There has been some negative press come Manning’s way since he led the Broncos to the Super Bowl title last month. Sexual assault allegations during his days with the Tennessee Volunteers have tarnished Manning’s image in the mind of some.
For what it’s worth, Manning was never charged with any wrongdoing and continues to deny that he was involved in the alleged assault.
On the field, Manning has been a true leader for the two teams he’s suited up for, leading the Colts and Broncos to a combined 15 playoffs appearances in 17 years as a starter. He’s also earned two Lombardi Trophies and five MVP awards.
Goodell’s comments are interesting for a number of reasons. Above all else, an always PR conscious league wouldn’t put the commissioner in a position to praise Manning if it believed there was any real substance to the aforementioned allegations.