Eli Manning announces retirement

After 16 years with the New York Giants, Eli Manning is reportedly hanging up his helmet.

The 38-year-old quarterback is expected to announce his retirement from the NFL in a press conference scheduled for Friday. “For 16 seasons, Eli Manning defined what it is to be a New York Giant both on and off the field,” says Giants president John Mara. “Eli is our only two-time Super Bowl MVP and one of the very best players in our franchise’s history.”

Although Manning was selected by San Diego in the 2004 NFL Draft, he refused to play for the team, prompting his trade to New York. He remained with the Giants throughout his entire career. “It meant something to Eli to be the Giants quarterback, and it meant even more to us,” Mara says. “We are beyond grateful for his contributions to our organization and look forward to celebrating his induction into the Giants Ring of Honor in the near future.”

Who was a better quarterback: Eli or Peyton Manning? Should the Giants retire Manning’s number?