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NEED TO KNOW
Eli Manning was announced as a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026
The retired New York Giants player was named a finalist last year, but wasn't selected
He was named Super Bowl MVP in 2008 and 2012
Eli Manningcould soon add another title to his lengthy list of accomplishments.
On Tuesday, Dec. 30, the retired New York Giants quarterback was announced as a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, one year after being overlooked for the honor in his first year of eligibility.
Manning, who was Super Bowl MVP in 2008 and 2012, was announced as one of 15 finalists in the Modern-Era Player category on Tuesday after falling short last year after reaching this stage. He joins an elite list of other finalists which includeDrew Brees,Larry Fitzgeraldand Jason Witten.
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The slate of candidates will be discussed when the Hall of Fame's selection committee gathers ahead of the 2026 Super Bowl in February. The Class of 2026 will be unveiled at the NFL Honors on Thursday, Feb. 5.
The committee may elect up to five Modern-Era Players for this year's class; each must receive a minimum positive vote of 80 percent for election.
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In February, Manning — who is one of only six players to earn multiple Super Bowl MVP awards — opened up about missing the ballot, while also praising the former football players who were selected.
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"I'm excited for those guys that got in. All of them are so deserving... Happy for them. Texted a few of them, the guys that I knew and just congratulated them," Manning told NFL Network's Jamie Erdahl onGood Morning Football.
"I had a feeling it wasn't going to be my night, and I understand that," he continued. "I'm totally at peace. It's not gonna change my outlook on my career and how I feel about it."
Manning went 117-117 in 236 games with the Giants, leading New York to six playoff berths, three division titles, two Super Bowl appearances and two Super Bowl wins overTom Bradyand the Patriots.
He played 16 seasons in the NFL from 2004 through 2019, all with the New York Giants. He retired from the league after the 2019 season.
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