Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Archie Manning

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 29, 2025

How Archie Manning built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Archie Manning is a former NFL quarterback best known as the patriarch of the Manning football family. He played 14 seasons in the NFL, primarily for the New Orleans Saints. Despite playing on mostly unsuccessful teams, Manning was a two-time Pro Bowl selection. More significantly, he is the father of Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning, establishing a legacy of football excellence within his family.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

October 4, 1969: Record-Setting Performance Against Alabama

On October 4, 1969, Archie Manning threw for 436 yards and three touchdowns, also rushing for 104 yards, in a game against Alabama. His performance set Southeastern Conference (SEC) records for passing yards, completions and total offense.

1969: SEC Player of the Year and Walter Camp Memorial Trophy

In 1969, Archie Manning won SEC Player of the Year and the Walter Camp Memorial Trophy while playing college football for the Ole Miss Rebels.

1971: Drafted by the New Orleans Saints

In 1971, Archie Manning was drafted by the New Orleans Saints and played for the team for ten full seasons.

1971: Selected Second Overall in the NFL Draft

In 1971, Archie Manning was selected second overall in the NFL draft by the New Orleans Saints, marking the beginning of his professional football career.

1972: League Leader in Pass Attempts and Completions

In 1972, Archie Manning led the league in pass attempts and completions and led the National Football Conference in passing yards, even though the team's record was only 2–11–1.

1976: Shoulder Surgery and Radio Booth Position

In 1976, Archie Manning sat out the entire season after corrective surgery on his right shoulder, later spending the second half of the season in the team's radio booth after Dick Butkus left his position.

1978: NFC Player of the Year

In 1978, Archie Manning was named the NFC Player of the Year by UPI after leading the Saints to a 7–9 record. He was also named All-NFC by both the UPI and The Sporting News that year.