Peyton Manning doesn’t only possess a laser rocket arm – he’s also the proud owner of some charming manners.
The 36-year-old quarter-back signed a lucrative contract with the Denver Broncos last month , after 14 years with the Indianapolis Colts. However, Manning hasn’t forgotten his roots – the star spent his Thursday morning calling newspaper reporters in Indianapolis to thank them for their work during his time with the Colts.
It’s a classy gesture, particularly at a time when big-name sport stars are often portrayed as being increasingly detached from the man in the street.
According to Phillip B. Wilson, just one of the Indianapolis Star reporters who took a cell call from Manning, this was the first time a departing Colts player had ever got in touch to say goodbye.
Writing on Twitter, Wilson described how:
“Manning said he hoped he could stay with Colts, but understands the biz. He told me to pass along to the fans how much he appreciated them. That’s the first time I’ve ever received a good-bye call from a Colts player in my journalism career. Classy move. Wished him the best.”
Following a string of injuries, Manning was reluctantly released by the Colts on March 7. After an almost two-week period where he visited and worked out for several NFL teams, he signed with the Broncos on March 20.
His contract at Denver is worth a cool $96 million, and will see Manning play at the Mile High stadium for the next five years, taking him past his 41st birthday.
