How cool would it be to answer your phone one afternoon, and the voice on the other end says, “Hi, it’s Peyton Manning.”
Many Indianapolis reporters are getting a call this week from Manning, who is thanking those who covered him during his 14-years as a Colt.
Only, Peyton Manning.
This is an example of how well put together and smart the four-time MVP is, off the field.
(Also worth noting that tight-end Dallas Clark sent a nice email to local media this offseason, thanking them for all they did.)
When Peyton and the Colts went different ways in March, his speech couldn’t have been any better. He was sincere and said all the right things. I remember saying at the time that the NFL should show that news conference at the rookie symposium. It doesn’t get any better.
According to Phillip B. Wilson of the Indianapolis Star, Manning was thankful for the media’s work over the years and he understood they had a job to do. In addition to the outlets’ Colts coverage, they were great about spreading the word of the Peyback Foundation, like the high school football games and charity bowling event.
Peyton also had one big thing on his mind, “Tell the fans I appreciated them, too.”
In the few times I interacted with Peyton, he was a true professional. He looked you in the eye and answered the question. Manning took the time to know the names of every media member that was around on a regular basis. Nothing he had to do but something Peyton Manning just does. He’s way above the standard.
He left a big mark on the city of Indianapolis — with the team, Lucas Oil Stadium, Super Bowl XLVI and the city. But I also know Indianapolis means a lot and will always be special to this Hall of Fame quarterback.