Eli Manning officially called it a career at a Jan. 24 press conference, but he's still earning some accolades from his NFL peers.
On Saturday, Manning received the Athletes In Action/Bart Starr Award, given to the player who "best exemplifies outstanding character and leadership in the home, on the field, and in the community."
Manning was announced as the 2020 recipient in early January, but received the award in Hollywood, Fla. on Saturday morning.
Notable past winners of the award include Peyton Manning in 2015, Aaron Rodgers in 2014, and Drew Brees in 2011. Voting for the award is done by active NFL players, who vote for it at the same time they fill out their Pro Bowl ballots.
"I used playing football to be a great teammate, to be a great player, to try to win championships, but also to try to help other people - and that maybe being the best part about it," Manning told reporters.
"I didn't use it for my own being or to get satisfaction in just playing in the game. My greatest satisfaction is the impact I've had on so many different families that are going through tough times. I hope [my children] recognize that and instill some of that same character into their lives as they get older."
Manning, who has been very active in the New Jersey and Mississippi communities since becoming a pro quarterback, built The Eli Manning Children's Clinics at a hospital in Jackson, Miss., and has contributed to various charities in the New York/New Jersey area.
Once again I have the blessing and privilege to introduce the Bart Starr Man of the Year Award winner at the #SBB20. Eli Manning was selected by the players and it is so well-deserved. Congratulations Eli! pic.twitter.com/zmPTsQvAH4
- Tony Dungy (@TonyDungy) February 1, 2020
For his work in the community, Manning also took home the 2016 Walter Payton Man of the Year award as well.
"In the NFL and elite sports, reputation - or, as it's called today, 'personal brand' - gets an awful lot of attention and often becomes synonymous with who the individual is as a person," Manning said.
"Because of marketing that's intentional, even if it's not always genuine … I'm a big fan of people being exactly who they are while stretching to become the athlete and person they are capable of becoming.
Asked about his very early days of retired life, Manning cracked jokes about playing more golf than usual, and maybe skipping a workout here and there, but he was clearly very honored with his latest award as he adjusts to life away from football.
"It's a great way to go out," Manning said.