The debate on New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson’s Hall of Fame prospects has also sparked questions on former quarterback Eli Manning. And his case looks as complicated as Wilson’s. Now, months after facing the first rejection, the 4× Pro Bowl gets yet another shocking update.

Earlier, Manning got snubbed in the debate over Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford. “If you look at Manning and you be fair about it, his career comes down to five games,” Chris Russo said in his recent interview with Dan Patrick.

“Now, their postseason games, they come down to five games. Wilson’s a better regular season quarterback than Manning, but not the postseason success. Stafford is a better quarterback than Manning, but not the postseason success, too. And you and I probably, if my life came down to it, I would definitely take Stafford over Manning,” Russo declared.

While that’s a tough debate, the QBs have individually made a strong legacy for themselves. For one, Stafford has won the Super Bowl with the Rams and has passing stats that have already surpassed some Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterbacks. He even surpassed Manning for 10th place after securing 59,809 regular-season career passing yards.

He is still playing like his old self at the age of 37, with the Rams, and has a chance to break even more records. Although Manning didn’t have the most successful regular seasons 117-117, he had a remarkable postseason record (8-4), including two impressive playoff runs, two Super Bowl wins over the New England Patriots, and two Super Bowl MVP titles.

He also held the record for career touchdowns with 366 when he retired in 2019. Perhaps the best aspect of his career was that he never missed a game due to any injury. But Chris’ comment might have stung sharply after the heartbreak in February. Manning didn’t make it to the Class of 2025 on his first ballot, despite “vigorous discussion.”

He was among the 15 finalists. The four selected this year were cornerback Eric Allen, defensive lineman Jared Allen, tight end Antonio Gates, and wide receiver Sterling Sharpe. Now, getting in as a first-ballot Hall of Famer is also about timing and fierce competition, with only four to eight candidates selected each year, including holdovers from previous years.

As for Manning, timing might have been the third reason. Many believe the QB deserved to get inducted in his first year of eligibility. “In the interest of full transparency,” Hall of Fame voter Gary Myers said. “I voted for Eli Manning and spoke up for him at our meeting.”

However, a few still have doubts over such claims. As for Manning, he seems to have handled it well.

Eli Manning has made his decision

Despite missing out, Manning seems completely at peace with the Hall of Fame Selection Committee’s decision. “I’m excited for those guys that got in. All of them are so deserving. I’m happy for them. I texted a few of them, the guys that I knew, and just congratulated them,” Manning said, praising the candidates this year.

He has a stunning record of 117 wins in 236 games with the Giants. Also, beating former quarterback Tom Brady and former coach Bill Belichick was not an easy task. While he had big moments, his turnover struggles often sparked debate about his Hall of Fame worthiness. He led thrice in interceptions (total 244).

However, that doesn’t diminish his legacy and contributions. Many have faith in Manning’s case for the Hall of Fame honor. “I had a feeling it wasn’t going to be my night, and I understand that,” the Giants legend said on GMFB: OT. “I’m totally at peace. It’s not going to change my outlook on my career and how I feel about it.”

He isn’t the only legend to have missed first-ballot selection. Former Giants player Michael Strahan and wide receivers Cris Carter and Terrell Owens are among the elite players who also missed out in their first year of eligibility. Perhaps next year will be the one for Manning.