It didn’t take long for the Indianapolis Colts to celebrate Peyton Manning’s career.
Colts owner Jim Irsay announced Friday the team will retire Manning’s No. 18 and build a statue of the quarterback outside Lucas Oil Stadium. Manning, who announced his retirement earlier this month, spent 14 years with the Colts before finishing his career with the Denver Broncos.
“It was my honor and privilege to play for this organization for 14 years,” Manning told reporters Friday. “I’ll always be a Colt.”
Manning is coming off a Super Bowl win with the Broncos. He had an impressive four-year run with Denver to cap his illustrious career. The five-time NFL MVP made a name for himself in Indianapolis, though, so it’s no surprise the Colts are treating him like a king.
“It was always strange watching (No.) 18 out there without the horseshoe on his helmet,” Irsay said. “I think I speak for all Colts fans when I say, ‘He’s ours.’ ”
Manning’s impact on both the organization and the city are undeniable. There never will be another No. 18 — literally and figuratively — in Colts history.
Thumbnail photo via Brian Spurlock/USA TODAY Sports Images
