Per USA Today:
Back in 2004, Archie Manning actively tried to keep son Eli from being drafted by the then-hapless San Diego Chargers, who held the top overall pick. Though the Bolts took Eli, he ended up with the Giants about an hour later.
Sounds like Archie might again be dispensing advice regarding a No. 1 overall pick … though this time it’s directed to the Colts, longtime employers of one of Archie’s other sons, four-time MVP Peyton.
Archie Manning was asked on FOXSports radio Tuesday if Indianapolis should draft Stanford QB Andrew Luck with the top pick next spring.
“I don’t think it’d necessarily be great for either one,” he said regarding Peyton and Luck. “I think Andrew’s the type of mature player … he can walk right in (and play).”
Given the recent of success of rookie quarterbacks, it would seem logical that Luck, who is regarded as perhaps the best college product since Peyton Manning in 1998, should play right away wherever he lands in the NFL.
Luck revealed Monday night on ESPN that he does plan to enter the 2012 draft even though he has one year of eligibility left with the Cardinal.
The winless Colts (0-12), who have been without injured Peyton (neck surgery) all year, currently hold a two-game lead for the rights to the first selection of the upcoming draft. There’s been widespread speculation that they will take Luck as Manning’s successor, though team vice chairman Bill Polian recently hinted that the team could afford to carry Manning and Luck on the roster. That might be an expensive proposition given the $28 million option bonus the team owes Manning next March. Peyton has also given no hint if he’s comfortable with the notion of keeping the seat warm for Luck.
Maybe Archie Manning is speaking for him.
“We know Andrew well. He comes down to our camp every year,” said Archie Manning, referring to the family’s offseason passing academy in Louisiana. He and Luck’s father, Oliver, were also teammates on the Houston Oilers in the 1980s.
“Peyton’s always tried to help Andrew and kind of be a friend. (But) I doubt if either one of them want to play on the same team.”
Archie; You got to be the most proudest Father on earth. I am 75 years old,
and I have seen both you and your sons play. Thanks for all the great football from just one family.