There has been plenty of speculation about Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning's future after the Super Bowl as many expect him to retire on top if Denver wins. However, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Manning will walk away from the sport no matter the outcome of the game.
"The reality is (Manning) let the cat out of the bag a little bit telling Bill Belichick this may be his last rodeo," Rapoport said on Super Bowl Live. "I also know he has told close friends that he expects this to be his last game as well."
NFL Network's cameras caught Manning telling New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick that it might be his "last rodeo" following their matchup in the AFC Championship Game. In speaking publicly about his future, Manning has been sure to mention that he hasn't made up his mind yet, but it appears he is set on retiring.
The 39-year-old Manning is in his 18th year in the league, but has seen his play dip drastically over the last year and a half. After setting NFL records with 5,477 yards and 55 touchdown passes in 2013, Manning has thrown for just 24 touchdowns and 29 interceptions since the start of November 2014 - including just 2,249 yards, nine touchdowns, and 17 interceptions in 10 starts this season.
Manning spent the first 14 years of his career with the Indianapolis Colts, who drafted him No. 1 overall in 1998, winning Super Bowl XLI, but was forced to sit out the entire 2011 season after undergoing neck surgery. Indianapolis released Manning the following offseason, opting to go with 2012 No. 1 overall pick Andrew Luck, causing Manning to sign with the Broncos.
If he does indeed call it a career after the Super Bowl, Manning leaves the game as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks to ever play the game. He is the only player to win five NFL MVP awards and is the league's all-time leader in career passing yards and career touchdown passes, on top of owning the single season marks in both categories. Manning is also a 14-time Pro Bowler and seven-time first-team All-Pro selection.
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