Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning recently entertained the idea of purchasing a stake in the team but ultimately decided against it, citing the high cost as a major barrier. The Giants announced in February that they planned to release a limited amount of stock into the market. Forbes valued the Giants at $7.3 billion, a figure that CNBC confirmed. Manning told CNBC Sports that the price was “basically too expensive” and noted how rapidly these valuations are climbing, explaining that even a 1% share in a $10 billion team comes with a hefty price tag.
Manning, a two-time Super Bowl MVP whose No. 10 jersey was retired by the Giants, also mentioned that owning part of the team would create conflicts with his current work, especially his role as an ESPN broadcaster. He pointed out that his broadcasting duties prevent him from interacting with players or engaging fully in coaching and football camps, making ownership impractical. Ultimately, this led him to back away from the opportunity.
The Giants are split evenly between the Mara and Tisch families, each holding 50% ownership. Since their father’s passing in 2005, John Mara and Steve Tisch have managed the team. Bob Tisch, Steve’s father, purchased half the team in 1991 for roughly $75 million, while Tim Mara, John’s grandfather, founded the franchise in 1925 for just $500.
Fan Take: Eli Manning’s decision highlights the rapidly escalating valuations of NFL franchises, emphasizing how owning a piece of a storied team like the Giants is becoming less accessible—even for legends of the game. This trend reflects the growing financial power of the NFL, which could lead to shifts in team ownership dynamics and fan engagement in the near future.
