According to ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio, former Indianapolis Colts legendary quarterback Peyton Manning became very emotional during the Denver Broncos Saturday night team meeting on Super Bowl 50’s Eve (via ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio):
"“Sal Paolantonio of ESPN reports that Manning became “very emotional” during the Saturday night session with players and coaches.“Peyton told a few jokes to lighten the mood, but then he got very emotional,” team president Joe Ellis told Paolantonio. “And so did DeMarcus [Ware]. The room was silent. It was a very emotional gathering.”According to Paolantonio, an unnamed source said that Manning didn’t state that he’ll retire after Super Bowl 50. The source told Paolantonio that Peyton didn’t need to.”"
While it’s been speculated for weeks that Super Bowl 50 will in fact be #18’s final game, this confirms what we already assumed–Manning will be under center for the last time tonight.
Manning hasn’t taken the “This will be my last ride,” approach of Ray Lewis–who’s retirement announcement in 2012 sparked the Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl XLVII magical playoff run.
However, one can read between the lines that this will be Manning’s final game and his teammates are certainly well aware that this is it for their future Hall of Fame quarterback.
Win or lose, Manning’s legacy shouldn’t be tarnished by the outcome of tonight’s game; however, it would be great to see him sent out into the sunset for what he’s always been–a champion.