Arch Manning, the highly touted quarterback from the Manning family, recently revealed his top five favorite quarterbacks of all time. This list, while personal to Manning, offers a glimpse into the athletes who have influenced him and shaped his perspective on the game. Being a member of the iconic Manning family—whose legacy includes his uncles Peyton and Eli, as well as his grandfather Archie—Arch’s picks are undoubtedly informed by both family tradition and admiration for exceptional talent.
1. **Peyton Manning**
Naturally, Peyton Manning, one of the NFL’s greatest quarterbacks, tops Arch’s list. Peyton, known for his brilliant football mind and exceptional leadership, is a natural influence on his nephew. Arch has often spoken about growing up watching Peyton’s games and being inspired by his ability to read defenses, his calm demeanor in critical moments, and his relentless preparation. Peyton’s consistency, which led to two Super Bowl victories and five MVP awards, serves as a high standard for Arch to aspire to in his own career.
2. **Tom Brady**
Another quarterback who made Arch’s list is Tom Brady, widely regarded as the greatest of all time due to his unmatched success in the postseason. Brady’s longevity, mental toughness, and ability to perform in clutch situations have made him a legend in the eyes of many, including Manning. With seven Super Bowl titles, Brady’s career is a model of sustained excellence, and his ability to succeed year after year, even as he aged, is something that Arch deeply respects.
3. **Drew Brees**
Drew Brees, who played the majority of his career with the New Orleans Saints, is another quarterback Arch admires. Brees’ accuracy, particularly in the short to intermediate passing game, is something that Arch has noted as a skill he strives to emulate. Brees, like Peyton, had a keen football IQ and a competitive fire that propelled him to one Super Bowl victory and numerous passing records, which are qualities Arch seeks to incorporate into his own game.
4. **Joe Montana**
Joe Montana, known for his success in big moments, rounds out Arch’s list as one of the top quarterbacks in history. Montana’s ability to perform under pressure, particularly in the postseason, is legendary. With four Super Bowl victories to his name, Montana’s coolness in the face of adversity serves as a blueprint for quarterbacks striving for success when it matters most. Arch admires Montana’s leadership and ability to deliver in clutch moments, something he hopes to replicate throughout his career.
5. **Aaron Rodgers**
Lastly, Arch includes Aaron Rodgers, a quarterback widely respected for his arm talent and unique ability to make every throw imaginable. Rodgers’ mix of precision, creativity, and ability to throw on the run is something Arch looks to incorporate into his own playing style. Rodgers’ 2011 season, where he led the Packers to a Super Bowl victory and won MVP honors, stands as an example of what’s possible when a quarterback is at the top of his game.
These five quarterbacks represent a diverse mix of skill sets and accomplishments, each contributing to Arch Manning’s development as he prepares for his own potential NFL future.