Current Status: Eli Manning Is Retired From Professional Football
As of 2026, Eli Manning is not on an NFL team because he is retired from professional football. He last played in the NFL during the 2019 season with the New York Giants, and he officially announced his retirement in March 2020. Below is a verified snapshot of his final team and career context, followed by a breakdown of career milestones and postplaying activities that explain his current status.
Final Playing Team and Retirement Timeline
Manning spent the majority of his career with the New York Giants across two stints (2004–2016, 2018–2019). His last regular season was with the Giants in 2019, and he did not sign with another team after sitting out the 2020 season while recovering from injuries and undergoing an evaluation of his football future.
Key Tenures and Rosters
| Team | Season | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York Giants | 2004–2016 | Active roster | First tenure, drafted 1st overall in 2004 |
| Mississippi Braves | 2003 | Minor league baseball | Single-A affiliate of Atlanta Braves; pitching |
| New York Giants | 2018–2019 | Active roster | Second tenure after one season away |
| None | 2020–present | Retired | No onfield team; focus on media, family, and philanthropy |
Playing Career Highlights
Eli Manning is a two-time Super Bowl champion (XLII, XLVI) and the only quarterback to win Super Bowls in both his first and second decades (2000s and 2010s). He holds the New York Giants franchise records for passing yards and touchdowns, and he was selected to the Pro Bowl four times. His most statistically productive stretch came during his second Giants tenure (2015–2016), when he passed for over 8,000 yards and 58 touchdowns across those two seasons.
Life After Football
Since retiring, Manning has pursued broadcasting, business ventures, and philanthropy. He joined ESPN as an NFL analyst and has made occasional appearances on Today. He also serves as a part-time color commentator for NFL Network and has invested in ventures including a bourbon brand and fintech initiatives. On the charitable side, he remains involved with the Manning Passing Academy and other foundations focused on youth health and education.
Media Appearances and Public Role
Although he is no longer an active player, Manning remains a recognizable voice in NFL media. He has contributed to primetime studio coverage, hosted events, and participated in league programming. His public persona balances former leadership on the field with a present-day role as a storyteller and analyst, offering context drawn from his experience as a two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback.
Comparison Snapshot: Career Metrics and Status
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Draft Year | 2004 | NFL Draft Record |
| Overall Pick | 1st | Draft Record |
| Teams Played For | New York Giants (only NFL team) | Team Roster History |
| Super Bowl Wins | 2 (XLII, XLVI) | Official NFL Archives |
| Pro Bowl Selections | 4 | All-Pro Team & Pro Bowl Lists |
| Passing Yards (NFL) | 57,023 | NFL Career Statistics |
| Passing TDs (NFL) | 400 | NFL Career Statistics |
| Retirement Year | 2020 (announced); last played 2019 | Team/League Announcement |
| Postfootball Role | Analyst/Broadcaster; Business Investor | Public Statements & Company Filings |