Retired Giants great Eli Manning wins PFWA 2020 Good Guy Award

Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, who retired in January after spending all 16 of his pro seasons with the organization, can add one more award to his trophy case.

On Tuesday, the Pro Football Writers of America announced that the 39-year-old was selected the winner of the PFWA 2020 Good Guy Award:

The Good Guy Award is given to an NFL player for his qualities and professional style in helping pro football writers do their jobs. The award has been presented annually by the PFWA since 2005.

“Eli Manning exemplified professionalism with the media since his rookie season in 2004, and he did so in the league’s largest market,” said PFWA president and Newsday NFL columnist Bob Glauber, who covered Manning during his entire career. “Eli often spoke of the example set by his father and being around Archie Manning was certainly a great way to learn about being around the media. Even so, playing in New York has unique pressures that Eli dealt with consistently and fairly. Media sessions at his locker would often start with as many as 50 reporters, photographers and camera operators, but he answered every last question – even when only one reporter was left. A pro’s pro.”

Manning began the 2019 campaign as New York's starting QB but was replaced by rookie and No. 6 overall pick Daniel Jones after the Giants started 0-2. The two-time champion and two-time Super Bowl MVP made his final in-game appearance on Dec. 15 when he guided the Giants to a home win over the Miami Dolphins before entering the tunnel to a hero's farewell.