The 2025 Fanatics Festival wrapped up a star-studded weekend in New York City, bringing together top names from across the sports world. The event launched with a “Franchise Faces” panel, where Kay Adams—formerly of Good Morning Football and now host of the Up & Adams podcast—led a conversation featuring Super Bowl champions Peyton and Eli Manning, along with current quarterbacks Caleb Williams (Bears), Bryce Young (Panthers), and CJ Stroud (Texans). The panel tackled what it truly takes to represent and lead an NFL franchise.
After spending 16 seasons with the New York Giants, Eli Manning knows firsthand the pressure that comes with leading a team in New York—something first-round rookie Jaxson Dart will soon experience. While at Fanatics Fest, Manning appeared to offer some guidance to the fellow former Ole Miss quarterback, as noted by Sports Illustrated. Speaking with Kay Adams during the panel, Manning shared insights on how to handle the challenges of dealing with the New York media.
Giants legend Eli Manning’s wise words
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“As a quarterback, as a leader of a team, you have to understand that when you have your great games, you’ve got to give credit to all your teammates. You give credit to everybody–how well they played and what they do, and say, ‘Hey, it’s not me; it’s them,” Manning remarked.
For Manning, it all boils down to accountability. He emphasized the importance of a quarterback owning every loss, no matter the circumstances. With 117 regular-season losses over his career, Manning understands better than most what it means to shoulder that responsibility.
“Opposite, when you have the tough games. You’ve gotta put it on your shoulders [and] take the blame for it…and that’s just part of being a quarterback,” said the former Giants’ superstar quarterback.
Eli Manning and Jaxson Dart
Could Manning’s comments have been aimed at Dart? The 22-year-old is entering his rookie season in New York, and whenever he’s handed the starting quarterback role for the Giants, he’ll be under intense media scrutiny. Like it or not, he’ll be expected to take full responsibility—just as Manning did throughout his career.
Dart, who made waves when the Giants traded up to get him in the first round, has been getting comfortable with his new team in recent weeks. He has shown steady progress during spring practices and could benefit from the wisdom Manning shared during the event.
Manning and Dart share a connection through their alma mater, Ole Miss. Both quarterbacks suited up for the Rebels during their college careers and were first-round picks in the NFL Draft.
Dart will have a chance to win the starting job this offseason, going up against Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Tommy DeVito. Once he takes over, he’ll be expected to deliver. If he applies Manning’s guidance, he could establish himself in New York for the long haul.
