The New York Giants found themselves in uncharted territory when recent NFL rule changes opened the door for franchises to sell minority stakes to private equity firms.
The two-time Super Bowl champion who once commanded the team’s huddle suddenly emerged as a potential buyer for his former franchise.
Eli Manning had set his sights on purchasing a small portion of the Giants following the league’s decision to allow teams to sell up to 10% to pre-approved private equity firms.
However, Manning discovered that even his deep connection to the organization couldn’t overcome the financial reality.
Speaking on Wednesday, the former quarterback revealed the harsh truth about modern NFL ownership costs.
“Basically, it’s too expensive for me. These numbers are getting very big. A one percent stake in something valued at ten billion dollars, it turned into a very big number. I love the Giants, and I think it is deserving of that valuation, and there will be people that want to go for it,” Manning said, per Doug Rush.
Former Giants quarterback Eli Manning will not be pursuing the minority ownership in the Giants franchise.
"Basically, it's too expensive for me. These numbers are getting very big. A one percent stake in something valued at ten billion dollars, it turned into a very big number.… pic.twitter.com/bCkGRyO2dY
— Doug Rush (@TheDougRush) July 9, 2025
The admission highlights how franchise valuations have reached levels that price out even former star players.
Manning’s current media responsibilities, including the popular Monday Night Football alt-cast with brother Peyton, also complicate any path toward NFL ownership.
The situation mirrors what Tom Brady faced while balancing his Fox role with minority ownership of the Las Vegas Raiders.
Eli Manning may not be joining the Mara and Tisch families as part of the Giants’ ownership group, but his involvement in sports ownership is already well underway.
He’s a minority owner of Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League, and he also holds a stake in TGL’s New York-based golf team.
Manning’s portfolio shows his growing interest in shaping the future of sports from the business side.
NEXT: Theo Johnson Reveals His No. 1 Priority With Giants