Childhood and Education Journey of Peyton Manning in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Peyton Manning, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Peyton Manning, nicknamed "the Sheriff", is a retired American football quarterback who played 18 seasons in the NFL. He's widely considered one of the greatest quarterbacks ever, playing 14 seasons for the Indianapolis Colts and 4 for the Denver Broncos. Part of the Manning football dynasty, he is the son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning and the older brother of Eli Manning. He played college football at the University of Tennessee, winning multiple awards and the 1997 SEC Championship.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

March 24, 1976: Peyton Manning's Birth

On March 24, 1976, Peyton Williams Manning was born. He is the second son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, and went on to become a celebrated NFL quarterback himself.

Others born on this day/year

1996: Junior Season and Citrus Bowl MVP

In 1996, during his junior season, Peyton Manning led the Vols to a Citrus Bowl victory over Northwestern, where he was named MVP. He completed his degree in speech communication in three years and decided to stay at Tennessee for his senior year despite being predicted as the top NFL draft pick.

1997: Senior Season Awards and Honors

In 1997, during his senior year, Peyton Manning won multiple awards, including the Maxwell Award, Davey O'Brien Award, Johnny Unitas Award, and Best College Player ESPY award. He was also the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy and was elected to Omicron Delta Kappa and Phi Beta Kappa.

2000: "Manning: A Father, His Sons, and a Football Legacy" Released

In 2000, Peyton Manning, along with his father Archie, co-authored a book titled Manning: A Father, His Sons, and a Football Legacy. The book covers their lives and careers, examining football from their perspectives.

Manning: A Father, His Sons and a Football Legacy

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2001: Marriage to Ashley

In 2001, Peyton Manning married his wife, Ashley, in Memphis on St. Patrick's Day.

2003: Settlement in Defamation Lawsuit

In 2003, Peyton Manning settled a defamation lawsuit filed by Jamie Ann Naughright, who accused him of sexual harassment, resulting in an undisclosed settlement and a court order preventing them from discussing the settlement or each other.

September 10, 2006: First Manning Bowl

On September 10, 2006, Peyton Manning's Colts defeated Eli Manning's Giants in the first "Manning Bowl" by a score of 26–21.

March 24, 2007: Hosted Saturday Night Live

On March 24, 2007, Peyton Manning hosted NBC's Saturday Night Live for his 31st birthday. The episode earned the show's highest household rating in over 10 months.

May 27, 2007: Indianapolis 500 Green Flag

On May 27, 2007, Peyton Manning waved the green flag to start the 91st Indianapolis 500.

July 14, 2008: Knee Surgery

On July 14, 2008, Peyton Manning underwent surgery to remove an infected bursa sac in his left knee, causing him to miss all preseason games and most of training camp.

2009: Pro Bowl Appearance

In 2009, Peyton Manning faced his brother Eli in the Pro Bowl, which was won by the NFC.

September 19, 2010: Second Manning Bowl

On September 19, 2010, Peyton Manning and the Colts beat Eli Manning's Giants in the second "Manning Bowl" by a score of 38–14.

March 31, 2011: Birth of Twins

On March 31, 2011, Peyton Manning and his wife Ashley welcomed twins: a son, Marshall Williams, and a daughter, Mosley Thompson.

October 26, 2012: Papa John's Pizza Stores Purchase

On October 26, 2012, Peyton Manning bought 21 Papa John's Pizza stores, all in Colorado.

September 15, 2013: Third Manning Bowl

On September 15, 2013, Peyton Manning and the Broncos beat Eli Manning's Giants in the third and final "Manning Bowl" 41–23.

March 7, 2016: Retirement Announcement

On March 7, 2016, Peyton Manning announced his retirement from the NFL after 18 seasons. He also received the 2016 ESPY Icon Award.

2016: Political Contributions

During the 2016 presidential race, Peyton Manning contributed to the campaign of Jeb Bush.

February 2018: Papa John's Pizza Stores Sale

In February 2018, Peyton Manning sold his shares of the 21 Papa John's Pizza stores he owned in Colorado.

February 18, 2018: Drove the Daytona 500 Pace Car

On February 18, 2018, Peyton Manning drove the pace car during the 2018 Daytona 500. He also appeared on Fox NASCAR's pre-race show.

2023: Joined University of Tennessee as a Professor

In 2023, Peyton Manning joined the University of Tennessee as a professor in the College of Communication and Information.

June 3, 2025: Joined NWSL Team Ownership

On June 3, 2025, it was announced that Peyton Manning would join the ownership group of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) team Denver Summit FC.