Peyton Manning is more than just any NFL quarterback. He’s arguably the best quarterback of the past decade, although fans in New England, New Orleans and Green Bay may argue that. So, who wouldn’t want a picture with a future Hall of Famer?
Manning was in Kansas City on Sunday, leading the Broncos to a 17-9 win over the division rival Chiefs, but what took place after the game is what stirred up the biggest story of the day.
Running back Jamaal Charles and wide receiver Dwayne Bowe both waited for Manning outside of the Broncos’ locker room after the game, looking to get some memorabilia from the four-time MVP, according to KCTV-5 in Kansas City. Charles got an autograph that he said was for his mother, while Bowe posed for a picture with Manning as a memory for the old photo album.
The Chiefs’ players’ actions stirred up quite the controversy, as news outlets and social media blew up with criticisms of Charles and Bowe for their actions.
Charles wasn’t too keen on the criticism, though, taking to Twitter to explain his action as “just two warriors showing each other respect.” He also re-tweeted other NFL stars such as Arian Foster, who defended Charles in the incident and revealed his own autograph seeking excursions.
Thank for the support and relax on the P Manning story, just two warriors showing each other respect…
— Jamaal Charles (@jcharles25) November 27, 2012
When asked about taking the photo with Manning, Bowe wasn’t quite as defensive. The Pro Bowl wide receiver suggested his decision was based merely on Manning’s legacy in the league, but also explained the photo would be the closest thing to playing with him.
“It’s a legend, I guess. It’s Peyton Manning. Who wouldn’t want a picture with him?” Bowe said, before a reporter referenced the lure of catching passes from him. “That too, but right now the best thing I have is a picture. So, I’ll live with that.”
Bowe is in a contract year, so maybe he’ll be looking to link on with Denver for next season. Either way, he at least has something to remember Manning by.
Check out the video of Charles and Bowe with Manning after the game.
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