Tennessee Volunteers football legend Peyton Manning has been honored as one of the 100 most influential figures in sports by TIME 100 magazine, a prestigious recognition that further solidifies his lasting impact and legacy in the world of sports.

Tennessee Volunteers football legend Peyton Manning has been honored as one of the 100 most influential people in sports by TIME 100 magazine, a distinction that not only highlights his individual greatness but also cements the legacy he continues to build far beyond the gridiron. Known as one of the most cerebral and accomplished quarterbacks in football history, Manning’s influence extends far past his Hall of Fame-caliber playing days and into the very fabric of American sports culture, leadership, and philanthropy.

To fully appreciate the significance of Manning’s inclusion on the TIME 100 list, it’s important to understand the journey that brought him to this moment. From his early days growing up in New Orleans as the son of NFL quarterback Archie Manning, Peyton seemed destined for greatness. But his rise was not handed to him. It was built on years of dedication, tireless preparation, and an insatiable desire to master the game of football.

When Manning arrived at the University of Tennessee, he was already a highly touted recruit, but he quickly proved he was more than just a big name. Under head coach Phillip Fulmer, Manning took command of the Volunteers’ offense and became a four-year starter who rewrote the school and SEC record books. He passed for over 11,000 yards and threw 89 touchdown passes during his collegiate career, and his leadership on and off the field transformed the Tennessee program into a national powerhouse. His senior season in 1997 remains one of the most memorable in school history, as he led the Volunteers to an SEC Championship and finished as the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy.

Manning’s decision to return for his senior year, despite already being NFL-ready, reflected the deep loyalty and commitment he had to the University of Tennessee, his teammates, and the Volunteer faithful. It’s part of what has endeared him to generations of fans who still revere him not just for what he accomplished, but for how he carried himself. He was always a team-first player, a respectful competitor, and someone who represented the school with class and pride.

After college, Manning was selected as the first overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, and the rest, as they say, is history. Over the course of his 18-year NFL career, he compiled statistics that rank among the most impressive in league history. He passed for over 71,000 yards, threw 539 touchdowns, won five MVP awards (an NFL record), and captured two Super Bowl titles—one with the Colts and another with the Denver Broncos. But his influence was never limited to just the stat sheet.

Manning revolutionized the quarterback position with his preparation, pre-snap adjustments, and unparalleled football IQ. He became synonymous with the term “field general,” orchestrating offenses like a coach on the field and raising the standard for what it meant to be an elite quarterback. Teammates, coaches, and opponents alike spoke in awe of his work ethic, his ability to read defenses, and his command of every aspect of the game.

Off the field, Manning has always maintained a visible and impactful presence. He has used his platform not just for endorsements and business ventures, but to give back in meaningful ways. His PeyBack Foundation, established in 1999, has provided millions of dollars in grants to youth programs that focus on leadership, education, and community support. His philanthropic efforts have impacted countless lives, particularly underserved children and families in Tennessee, Indiana, Louisiana, and Colorado—states that have all played a role in his football journey.

Even in retirement, Manning has remained front and center in the sports world. Whether it’s through his acclaimed ESPN+ series “Peyton’s Places,” which explores the rich history of the NFL, or his insightful commentary on Monday Night Football’s “ManningCast” alongside his brother Eli, Peyton continues to shape the way fans engage with the sport. His humor, charisma, and unmatched knowledge have made him a beloved media figure, proving that his influence did not end when he hung up his cleats.

The TIME 100 recognition is not simply a reflection of what Manning has accomplished as an athlete—it’s a testament to the broader scope of his impact. In an era where athletes are increasingly recognized as cultural influencers, community leaders, and voices for change, Manning’s ability to seamlessly blend performance, leadership, and integrity sets him apart. He represents a rare breed of public figure who transcends his sport while never forgetting his roots.

It’s also worth noting how Manning’s legacy continues to uplift the University of Tennessee. The Volunteers have embraced him as a living icon, with his presence still felt across campus and in the locker room. He remains closely connected to the program, often mentoring quarterbacks, attending games, and representing Tennessee with pride on the national stage. His continued involvement serves as an inspiration to current players and a point of pride for the entire Volunteer Nation.

Manning’s influence also touches the next generation of athletes. His story, one of discipline, humility, and excellence, offers a blueprint for young players hoping to make their mark. He has shown that success is not just about talent, but about preparation, accountability, and the ability to lift up those around you. For today’s rising stars, there may be no better role model.

In the business world, too, Manning has found success. He has become a sought-after speaker, a trusted brand ambassador, and a savvy investor. But what stands out most is his ability to remain grounded despite the spotlight. While many elite athletes drift into the background after retirement, Manning has remained visible—and more importantly, respected—because he brings authenticity to everything he does.

His influence can also be seen in his growing presence within the broader football community. He has been floated as a potential NFL executive or even a future commissioner of the league, thanks to the respect he commands and the insight he brings to every discussion. There are few former players with the résumé, intellect, and demeanor to take on such roles, but Manning is consistently viewed as someone who could thrive at that level if he chooses to.

That level of esteem is rare and deeply earned. Manning has navigated the transition from player to public figure with the same grace and precision that defined his career under center. He has remained a unifying figure in a sports world that is often divided by rivalries, controversies, and shifting loyalties.

When TIME 100 compiles its list, it’s not just about who is popular or who gets the most headlines. It’s about who truly moves the needle—whose work, presence, and example leave a lasting imprint. Peyton Manning embodies all of that. He represents excellence at the highest level, both on and off the field, and his story is far from over.

The honor bestowed by TIME 100 serves as both recognition and reflection—a chance to look back at everything Manning has accomplished, and also to look forward to what lies ahead. Whether he’s mentoring young quarterbacks, shaping public discourse through media, giving back through philanthropy, or one day taking on a leadership role within the NFL, there’s no doubt that Peyton Manning will continue to be a force of influence for years to come.

His journey from Tennessee to the top of the football world—and now to the upper echelon of cultural impact—has been defined by consistency, character, and a commitment to making a difference. In many ways, he’s the ultimate ambassador for sportsmanship, leadership, and the enduring power of hard work.

So while the list of accolades on his résumé is long—from MVPs to Super Bowl rings, Hall of Fame honors to jersey retirements—it’s recognitions like this that speak to the totality of who Peyton Manning is. Not just a football player, not just a media personality, but a true influencer in the broadest and most meaningful sense of the word.

As fans, teammates, and observers reflect on his journey, one thing becomes clear: Peyton Manning hasn’t just played the game. He’s elevated it. And now, with yet another prestigious recognition to his name, his legacy continues to grow—not just as a legend of Tennessee football, but as one of the most influential figures in the history of sports.