The Pros and Cons Of An Eli Manning Extension

Dec 28, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) walks off the field after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles defeated the Giants 34-26. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

So far the news out of the New York Giants camp is that the team has made no move to engage in contract talks with quarterback Eli Manning.  For many it comes as bit of a surprise but one must ask the question.  Is the team right to put a hold on it?  After all, they may have some legitimate concerns about moving took quickly.  Here is a list of pros and cons in regards to what a new deal would mean.

Pros

• Two Super Bowl rings
• Three Pro Bowls
• Unproven options to replace him

Cons

• Turns 35 next January
• Has not made the playoffs the past three seasons
• 41 interceptions the past two seasons

Everybody knows the history.  Manning was the MVP of both Giants championship runs in 2007 and 2011.  During that span of seasons he was playing as well as any quarterback in the NFL.  Also don’t forget how well he finished the 2014 season, coming away with over 4,400 yards and 30 touchdowns.  Lastly, who would replace him next year if they did decide to part ways?  Ryan Nassib?  Nothing has indicated the kid is up to such a task.

At the same time, one must see the practical view.  Manning will feel within his rights to demand considerable money.  Considering he approaches his mid-30s, which is near the age range where quarterbacks start to break down.  Add in the fact he hasn’t produced a playoff berth in New York since that miracle run in 2011, a year they barely made it in at 9-7 and also that he continues to have problems turning the ball over and it’s easy to see why the Giants may be hesitant to throw tens of millions of dollars on the table to keep him.

At the end of the day, as almost everything else in the NFL, it will come down to price.  If Eli Manning is willing to take a deal the New York Giants are more comfortable with, something should get worked out.  If not, then 2016 NFL free agency gets very interesting.