Peyton Manning received a hero’s welcome at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday night.
After 14 seasons with the Colts, No. 18 returned to Indianapolis for the first time since being released by the team in 2012. The drama leading up to Manning’s much-anticipated homecoming took a back seat to the magnitude of the situation, as tens of thousands of fans showed their love and gratitude for the man who will always be a hero in Indiana.
While boos filled the stadium as the Broncos made their way onto the field, the sold-out crowd changed their tune when Manning ran out, rising to their feet and giving the signal caller a standing ovation. As he began warming up on the sidelines, the Colts showed a 90-second tribute video that highlighted Manning’s accomplishments during his time in Indianapolis.
The video concluded with a graphic that read “Thanks Peyton,” and Manning, who was visibly touched by the ceremony, removed his helmet and waved to the crowd, thanking them as they continued to cheer for their former quarterback.
Check out the touching scene in the video below.
