Peyton Manning has officially sworn off quarterback rankings, and it’s all thanks to a direct text message from Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts that arrived just 20 minutes after the Hall of Famer revealed his top five at Fanatics Fest 2024.
Last summer, Manning’s list featured Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. But it notably left out Hurts—who would later lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl LIX title just months afterward.
“I named five guys and Jalen Hurts texted me like 20 minutes later, ‘I didn’t make your list,’ and now Jalen’s mad at me,” Manning revealed at this year’s Fanatics Fest in New York City. “So, no list today.”
That snub didn’t sit well with Hurts, but it seems to have left a lasting impression on Manning. Despite Hurts’ modest 2024 regular season—throwing for 2,903 yards and 18 touchdowns—he delivered when it mattered most. The Eagles star completed 71 percent of his passes in the playoffs for 726 yards, five touchdowns and one interception, adding 194 rushing yards and five more scores en route to hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.
The irony isn’t lost on fans. Manning’s omission, whether intentional or not, seemed to fuel Hurts’ fire. The two quarterbacks share a respectful relationship dating back to Hurts’ time as a counselor at the Manning Passing Academy. Manning has spoken highly of Hurts’ leadership, describing him as having “quiet confidence” and praising the way he carries himself.
But after being on the receiving end of Hurts’ subtle clapback, Manning has decided it’s not worth stirring the pot anymore. “I’m a quarterback defender, I’m a quarterback fan, I know how hard it is to play, and so, no list this year,” he said.
Whether it was Hurts’ championship run or Manning’s desire to avoid another awkward exchange, one thing is certain: the Eagles quarterback made his case loud and clear without ever raising his voice. And now, thanks to one well-timed text, the quarterback ranking game just lost one of its biggest voices.