Archie Manning

Archie Manning is a football icon, philanthropist, and devoted family man whose influence goes far beyond sports. He played 15 seasons in the NFL and continues to inspire through his leadership, charity work, and commitment to community.

Born in Drew, Mississippi, Manning starred as quarterback at the University of Mississippi. He earned All-American honors and had his number retired. In 1971, the New Orleans Saints selected him second overall in the NFL Draft. Manning set team passing records, played in two Pro Bowls, and earned NFC MVP honors in 1978. He became the first player inducted into both the Louisiana Superdome Wall of Fame and the Saints Ring of Honor.

Off the field, Archie Manning earned major recognition, including the Byron “Whizzer” White and Bart Starr Humanitarian Awards. He also received the Legends Award from the Davey O’Brien Foundation and the Silver Buffalo Award from the Boy Scouts of America. He has served in public relations for companies like Gatorade and DirecTV. For 25 years, he hosted golf tournaments benefiting cystic fibrosis research and actively supports causes like the Special Olympics, United Way, and the Salvation Army. He now chairs the National Football Foundation.

Archie and his wife, Olivia, live in New Orleans. They have three sons: Cooper, Peyton, and Eli. Peyton and Eli, both Super Bowl champions, enjoyed standout NFL careers. Together, the Mannings co-authored Manning: A Father, His Sons and A Football Legacy and Family Huddle, a children’s book. They also run the Manning Passing Academy, a top summer camp for high school quarterbacks and receivers.

The Sugar Bowl created the Manning Award to honor the nation’s top college quarterback. Town & Country named the Mannings one of America’s most inspiring families. ESPN featured their story in its acclaimed documentary The Book of Manning.