Lifestyle

Russell Wilson Pens Heartfelt Letter To Peyton Manning After SB50 Win

by Adam Silvers
Getty Images

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson wants Peyton Manning to know how thankful he is for everything.

Wilson recently penned an emotional, heartfelt letter to Manning, which will only further fuel the speculation last night was Peyton Manning's final NFL game.

Wilson's letter, entitled "If This Is It," is simple, yet it manages to perfectly encapsulate the mark Peyton Manning will leave on the game of football.

Wilson starts his letter by crediting everything Peyton did on the football field.

He writes,

From all the wins, to the few tough losses. From the 71,000 yards, to all the touchdowns, to the few interceptions. From all the meetings, to all the hard practices, to all the film, to all the blood, sweat and tears. From all the Pro Bowls, to the handful of MVPs, to the two Lombardi trophies. From all the teammates, to all the opponents, to all the fans. From the blue and white, to the blue and orange …

Wilson then goes on to talk about the moment Peyton Manning inspired him to pursue his dream of becoming an NFL quarterback.

Wilson writes,

Sheriff, If this is it, there's one moment I won't forget. 10th grade. Louisiana. At your quarterback camp. You inspired the kid in the green shirt. You inspired me to work hard. To be disciplined. To be respectful. To take notes. You inspired me to love the process. To love the sweat. To love the tears. But most of all … You inspired me to love the game. Thanks, Peyton. If this is it, Thanks.

It's difficult to try and put into words what Peyton Manning means to the game of football, which is why right now, simply saying "thanks" seems like the most appropriate message.

Citations: If This Is It (The Players' Tribune)