Peyton Manning is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, with an illustrious career filled with accolades that most players can only dream of. However, his journey to greatness didn’t start with immediate success. In fact, Manning holds an unfortunate NFL record: the most interceptions thrown by a rookie quarterback in a single season, a staggering 28 during his 1998 rookie campaign. It’s a record he jokingly admits he’d be more than happy to see broken.
Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show on Friday, Manning reflected on the upcoming NFL season and couldn’t resist poking fun at his rookie-year struggles. The Hall of Famer said he’s been eagerly waiting for a current rookie to surpass his interception record, hinting that it’s one accolade he wouldn’t mind losing.
“I really want that interception record broken,” Manning joked. “I don’t want Broncos QB Bo Nix to break it, but if one of the guys in Washington or Chicago wants to, I’m rooting for them. I’ve got to get that one off my resume.”
Manning’s rookie season with the Indianapolis Colts was far from easy. The Colts finished with a dismal 3-13 record in 1998, and Manning’s 28 interceptions were a key factor in their struggles. Despite the rocky start, he also showed flashes of brilliance, throwing for over 3,700 yards and 26 touchdowns—an impressive feat for a rookie, especially at a time when passing numbers were generally lower than they are today.
As Manning’s career progressed, those early mistakes became a distant memory. By his second season, he had cut his interceptions nearly in half, throwing 15, and from there, he ascended to become one of the most prolific passers in NFL history. Over his career, Manning set numerous passing records, including most passing yards and touchdowns, many of which he set during his final stint with the Denver Broncos. Though those records have since been broken by Tom Brady and Drew Brees, Manning’s legacy as one of the best to ever play the game remains untarnished.
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Still, that interception record lingers, and Manning had some advice for NFL coaches on how it could be broken. He humorously encouraged coaches to leave struggling rookie quarterbacks in games, even if they’re having a rough day.
“If they struggle early, leave them in there,” Manning advised. “That’s the only way you’re going to get to 28 interceptions. Plus, that’s how you learn—you stay in there and figure out how not to throw that fourth interception. You pull them out too early, they won’t get the chance to break my record!”
Manning’s lighthearted attitude toward his interception record is just another example of the humility and humor that have endeared him to fans throughout his career. Despite holding nearly every major passing record at one point, he’s not above laughing at his early struggles and recognizing that even the greatest players can have rough beginnings.
In addition to his playful commentary, Manning will be back on air soon with his brother Eli, as the two return for another season of Manningcast on ESPN.
Their first broadcast will be during Week 1 when the New York Jets face the San Francisco 49ers, offering fans a mix of football analysis and comedic banter between the Manning brothers.
Whether or not Manning’s interception record will be broken this season remains to be seen, but for now, he’s more than happy to root for the next generation of quarterbacks to surpass one of his more dubious achievements.
