Giants Legend Looking To Buy Stake in Franchise

There is no figure in New York Giants history more beloved than Eli Manning. With two Super Bowls, a litany of franchise records, and the status of childhood hero for a generation of Giants fans, his stability under center was the guiding light for an organization that is still craving it in the years since his retirement.

Manning has never strayed far from the organization. He remained a mentor for quarterback Daniel Jones, occasionally called the team’s Monday Night games on “Manningcast,” and had his number retired at MetLife Stadium.

Now, his relationship may grow even more intimate.

The Giants legend is interested in buying an ownership stake in the franchise, the next development in John Mara and Steve Tisch looking to sell a 10-percent ownership stake in the organization.

“Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning is putting together an investment group to bid for a piece of the National Football League team, according to people with knowledge of the matter,” Bloomberg reported. “… Manning, who led the team to its last Super Bowl victory in 2012, has spoken to individual investors including retired NFL players, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing confidential information.”

Earlier in the offseason, Manning expressed his desire to buy into an NFL franchise, although he was only willing to put pen to paper with New York.

“It’s definitely something of interest,” said Manning, via CNBC Sport. “There’s probably only one team I’d be interested in pursuing, and it’s the one I played for for 16 years, and it’s local, and makes the most sense, but we just got to figure out if they would ever sell a little bit.”

Giants fans have unsurprisingly reacted well to the news, cherishing the possibility of one of their own being welcomed back into the fold.

As far as impact, Manning’s impact probably wouldn’t mean very much. He wouldn’t have a controlling stake like Mara does; he largely just stands to profit. But being an extra adult in the room, a marketable figure, and a liaison to NFL players should all benefit the team.

New York knows Manning represents the franchise well, and the move would earn some goodwill with the fanbase.

“I think my quest post-football is trying to find that passion and find something similar that I can work towards or am truly committed to,” Manning said in the aforementioned interview. “I kind of feel like I get to start over a little bit, and I’m enjoying that learning process of figuring out what else I’m passionate about.”