It seems, and I understand it if people are younger, and don't/can't remember things, i get it; but, it seems people only remember post-neck Manning...the one that only went on to win another MVP and went to 2 SBs. Seems there's this narrative out there, that Manning had no "talent" or "athleticism". The OP isnt the first i've seen it.
It's just not true.
Before Manning hurt his neck...while no, he wasn't Lamar Jackson, he could move around in the pocket, out of the pocket, buy time, and throw. And, whenever the aforementioned throwing of the football, he had as much "talent" as ANYONE to ever do it. And, before he hurt his neck, his arm was as strong as anyone's. Not only could he throw a 60 yard dime, his placement is unmatched.
It also truly seems, that people have most definitely forgotten Manning at Tennessee. And, this is not at you, Jack, none of this...but, go back and just watch his games against Georgia, and try and tell me he had no talent or athleticism.
Manning's arm talent alone, both as a gun and a marksman, puts him above all our other greats, he truly is once-in-a-lifetime...thats before you add in everything else. Imo, he is the GOAT, all time; however, on everyone else's list, if he's not #1, he's 2 or 3. And people are trying to say he didn't have much talent?? ALL brains? I guess I'll just have to disagree.