Netflix is preparing to bring football fans and television audiences a new sports drama that captures one of the most compelling stories in recent NFL history. Beginning production in early 2026, the series will follow the life and career of Eli Manning, tracing his journey from his upbringing in Oxford, Mississippi, to his rise as one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in New York Giants history.
The series will open in Manning’s hometown of Oxford, where he grew up in the shadow of his father, Archie Manning, an Ole Miss legend and longtime NFL quarterback. The show will explore the challenges of carving out an identity within a family already known as “football royalty,” including the expectations that came with being Peyton Manning’s younger brother. Audiences will see a young Eli developing his quiet but determined personality, learning to balance the pressure of his last name with his own love for the game.
From there, the narrative will shift to Manning’s years at the University of Mississippi. His time at Ole Miss was marked by steady growth, both as a leader on the field and as a public figure representing the school. The series is expected to dive into the defining moments of his college career, including his record-breaking performances, the adoration he earned from Rebel fans, and the heartbreaks that came along the way.
After college, the storyline will take viewers through the dramatic events of the 2004 NFL Draft, where Manning was selected as the number one overall pick but initially resisted playing for the San Diego Chargers. His eventual trade to the New York Giants set the stage for a career that would define not just the franchise, but also the modern era of the NFL.
The bulk of the show will highlight Manning’s 16-year career in New York, a journey filled with highs, lows, and unforgettable moments. From struggles in his early seasons to his transformation into a calm, clutch performer on football’s biggest stage, fans will relive the underdog story of how Manning led the Giants to two improbable Super Bowl victories. Both triumphs came against the New England Patriots and cemented his legacy with two Super Bowl MVP titles. The series will also explore Manning’s leadership style, one defined not by loud speeches or flashy plays, but by resilience, humility, and an unshakable ability to perform under pressure.
In addition to football, the show will provide a glimpse into Manning’s personal life, his philanthropic work, and his transition into broadcasting and public life after retiring in 2019. By weaving together sports action, family dynamics, and personal growth, Netflix aims to deliver a series that resonates with both football fans and general audiences alike.
Ultimately, this project will not only celebrate Eli Manning’s remarkable career but also offer a broader reflection on perseverance, family, and the meaning of legacy in American sports.