Tom Brady and Peyton Manning have been considered rivals throughout their careers, and Brady is hoping that rivalry continues next season.
Brady was asked about his counterpart Thursday and said he hopes Manning returns for another season.
“What a great player he’s been for this league,” Brady said via NFL.com. “He’s a great competitor, and I’ve been fortunate to play against him a bunch of times. I certainly hope he comes back, because the league will miss him if he doesn’t. But those decisions are up to him. I’m sure it’s up to whether he’s mentally and physically — that’s what he wants to do. But I certainly hope he’s back.”
Manning flamed out of the playoffs in the divisional round and did not look like himself the last month of the season. We later learned he had a quad injury that was pretty severe, which could have explained his struggles passing the ball. At last word, the belief was that Manning would return next season if he passes his physical.
As for Brady’s future, he has said he will continue to play until he’s not good anymore. Given the way he played in leading the Patriots to the Super Bowl, we’re not envisioning a retirement any time too soon.
