Sad to see it end, but so glad it was handled with such class.

Last week, the incomparable Peyton Manning, after sitting out a year with injury, was released by the Indianapolis Colts. His exit press conference, with the team owner that was cutting him standing just feet away, should be the standard for all “good bye” events. Manning’s eyes watered… while he was thanking the equipment managers!

In August 2011 Manning was being interviewed on New York City’s ESPN 1050 Radio by Michael Kay.

“Is Eli Manning an elite quarterback? Are you a top 5, a top 10 quarterback?” Kay asked.

Manning simply replied “Yeah…”

The firestorm from that one-word answer lasted all season…especially when the Giants were floundering at 7-7 and looked like their playoff hopes were dashed. But every time a reporter or fan threw his answer back at him, Eli stood strong. “I believe I am,” is all he said.