The 2016 Co-Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year added he instead spent Thursday night celebrating Super Bowl week with family and friends in New Orleans, Manning’s hometown.

Manning went 117-117 in 236 games with the Giants, leading New York to six playoff berths, three division titles, two Super Bowl appearances and two Super Bowl victories over the G.O.A.T. Tom Brady and the Patriots. Manning was prolific and clutch in the postseason but also struggled with turnovers over his career, thrice leading the league in interceptions; he finished with 366 touchdowns and 244 picks.

His HOF viability was a hotly debated topic ahead of Thursday’s reveal and will continue to be so until Manning is enshrined and joins his brother, Peyton, in Canton — or until his eligibility runs out.

For each year’s class, the Selection Committee may elect up to five Modern-Era players; each must receive a minimum positive vote of 80% for election.

A quick glance at next year’s potential class reveals some stiff competition for Manning and other Hall hopefuls. Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, Jason Witten, Frank Gore and Manning’s draftmate Philip Rivers are all slated to be first-time eligibles.