Many NFL players encounter uncertainty when they retire. They lack direction. Peyton Manning exists in a different world. His biggest decision will be choosing among multiple options.
Given his love for the sport, many NFL insiders expect Manning to remain in the league as an owner or a general manager.
“He has meant so much to the game of football,” Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay said. “I know he will be involved with the league for years to come, like (Broncos general manager) John Elway.”
For Manning, the fit must be right. Even with recent bad publicity regarding insinuations he used human growth hormone and his mention in a Title IX lawsuit against the University of Tennessee for a 20-year-old incident, Manning is the king of endorsements. He led NFL players with $12 million in off-field earnings in 2015 because of partnerships with Buick, Nationwide, Papa John’s, Gatorade, DirecTV and Nike.
But filming commercials and playing golf are unlikely to quench Manning’s competitive desire. Any TV network probably would welcome him as an analyst. Manning carved his legacy on preparation, leaving him a natural to analyze the game. However, many believe he will want more of a direct involvement in the game.
He will have no shortage of suitors — including the Colts, who would welcome him back, Irsay said. Manning and Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam are good friends because of their connection to the University of Tennessee. Haslam could make room for Manning, but it would require another front-office reshuffling. The Tennessee Titans also could be a landing spot for Manning because of his popularity in that state.
The only mystery is his future role, not how he will approach it.
“If it was anybody other than Peyton Manning, I’d worry about it some,” said Hall of Fame general manager Bill Polian, who worked with Manning in Indianapolis. “Some guys are more prepared than others. But he’ll be fine. He won’t have any problem at all. He’ll go on to the next chapter of his life, whatever it may be, and he’ll be just as dedicated and just as professional as he’s been in football.”
Troy E. Renck: trenck@denverpost.com or @troyrenck
