Eli Manning will have to wait at least one more year for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The two-time Super Bowl MVP reportedly did not secure enough votes during his second year of eligibility.
His prior snub was somewhat expected, given his .500 win-loss record and his positioning on annual passing leaderboards. Nevertheless, his legendary performances leading the New York Giants to two Super Bowl victories against the Patriots and Tom Brady highlight a complex Hall of Fame candidacy.
Why Manning Was Omitted Again
Hall of Fame quarterbacks are typically crowned with numerous prestigious awards and have consistently ranked among the elite. Manning, while maintaining a strong history, fell short when measuring against other elite quarterbacks.
An analysis of Manning’s year-to-year statistics reveals he often fell far below the expected efficiency levels for a Hall of Fame signal caller. He ranked 18th in EPA per play, below even Derek Carr, while averaging a 17th-place rank in ANY/A+ metrics.
Statistics that portray his passing prowess indicate he was not consistently in the top 10, nor did he achieve any top-five ranks in passer ratings throughout his career. For reference, the average Hall of Fame quarterback typically finishes in the top 10 annually.
Career Longevity and Contributions
On the other hand, Manning’s durability, hallmark accomplishments in the postseason, and two Super Bowl MVP accolades support his Hall of Fame arguments. He is one of only six quarterbacks with multiple Super Bowl MVPs, standing alongside legends like Tom Brady and Joe Montana.
Given Manning’s pivotal moments in NFL history, particularly in Super Bowl matchups, and his impressive record of starting 210 consecutive games, some suggest that he should eventually earn his place in the Hall.
Conclusion
Deciding Manning’s candidacy remains complex; while statistics may not paint a Hall of Fame picture, his impact on the game and legendary performances cannot be overlooked.
Notable quarterbacks currently in consideration include Matthew Stafford and Philip Rivers, adding even more competition for Manning’s potential induction.
