Hall of Fame voter says Eli Manning’s candidacy faces ‘significant’ obstacles in first year of eligibility
Earlier this month, Eli Manning learned he was one of the semifinalists for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame modern era class. The two-time Super Bowl champion, who retired after the 2019 season, made the list in his first year of eligibility.
But this week, a Hall of Fame voter put a damper on the idea that Manning could receive enough votes to become an official member of the Class of 2025. “The general consensus seems to be Manning will eventually get into the Hall, even if it’s not this year,” the voter told ESPN.
Candidates must reach the selection committee’s 80% threshold in order to get voted in. But, Manning’s candidacy has become polarizing.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
Apr 14, 2024; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Retired Giants quarterback Eli Manning during the pregame at Red Bull Arena. (Jonathan Jones-USA TODAY Sports)
There are several arguments that could be made when making a case for or against the retired quarterback. He showed his ability to play at an elite level during the run to the aforementioned Super Bowl titles, throwing a combined 15 touchdowns against just one interception during those postseasons.
DANIEL JONES TO SIGN WITH VIKINGS AFTER TUMULTUOUS END WITH GIANTS: REPORT
Arguments against Manning’s candidacy include the fact that he was never named to an All-Pro team during his playing career. While Manning did compete in an era that also featured Tom Brady, his older brother Peyton Manning, Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers, the absence of at least one All-Pro nod could weigh heavily in the minds of some voters.
New York Giants former quarterback Eli Manning prepares to throw out the first pitch before the game between the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)
Furthermore, Manning finished his career with a regular-season record of 117-117. Many star quarterbacks and Hall of Famers finished at least one season in the NFL’s top spot in touchdowns or passing yards —Manning never accomplished either of those feats.
He did, however, throw the most interceptions in the league in three separate seasons. Manning retired from the NFL with 244 career interceptions.
Oct 11, 2018; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) leaves the field after a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)
But, there have only been a dozen quarterbacks who have won multiple Super Bowl titles, and Manning is among that exclusive group.
In all likelihood, Manning will ultimately become a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame — it just remains unclear how long he will have to wait to receive the coveted gold jacket.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The Hall of Fame selection committee will soon trim the semifinalist list down to 15 finalists. After another round of polling takes place, a list of 10 finalists will be revealed. Lastly, a group of seven finalists will be announced.
Every member of the committee will then be allowed to pick five of the seven names for the final vote.
Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.