Eli Manning Offers Opinion On Zach Wilson, Jets' Quarterback Situation

Despite being retired, Eli Manning still gets fired up for each Sunday during the NFL season. However, that day of the week is now referred to as "Slider Sunday."

That's because Manning has teamed up with King's Hawaiian to bringing families and friends together this fall. 

We caught up with Eli Manning to discuss the Jets’ quarterback situation, the 2023 NFL season and his partnership with King’s Hawaiian.

The Spun: Can you tell us about your partnership with King’s Hawaiian?

Eli Manning: I’m excited about this partnership because King’s Hawaiian has been helping bring families and friends close together for quite a while now. For us, it’s about getting together and having those “Slider Sundays.” You can do it every week, whether it’s tailgating before a game, wrapping up a weekend or barbecuing in the backyard. You can have so many different options and get your kids away from the staples like chicken fingers and pasta with butter. It’s been a great way to get together with friends and families.

The Spun: With that said, what’s your go-to slider?

EM: My wife makes this turkey ranch slider that’s good. I’m also a big sloppy joe guy, so you can put that on a King’s Hawaiian bun. And of course, you can go with classic ones like a burger or grilled chicken sandwich. I like the variety with King’s Hawaiian.

The Spun: The ‘Manningcast’ returns next Monday for Giants-Seahawks. Is there added stress covering the Giants or are you able to cover it like a regular game?

EM: It’s definitely different because I’m rooting for a specific team during the game. I can’t hide that. I’m a Giants fan. I’m always rooting for the Giants, and I will be rooting for them in this game. I’m sure Peyton will root against the Giants just to spite me. I’m living the game more and rooting for guys like Daniel Jones, who has become a great friend of mine. When you know the players, the coaches, the owners, you’re going to show a bit more emotion.

The Spun: Is there a quarterback out there that would give the Jets a better chance to win in your mind? Or do you think Zach Wilson is their best option at the moment?

EM: I think Zach is the guy. I think it’s hard on him. It’s a brand new offense, and this offense was tailored around Aaron Rodgers. They put in plays that Aaron was most familiar with and knew the best. Now, you got an offense that needs to be tailored around Zach Wilson. He’s got to communicate with the coaches and say which plays he’s most comfortable with. It’s a tough situation for sure. He’s a young kid trying to figure this out. The Jets can be a bit patient with him because they got a good defense, but they got to support him and rally around him. He’s getting hit at all angles from the media and everybody.

The Spun: If you were a high school recruit today but you couldn't go to Ole Miss, where would you play college football?

EM: Right now, I obviously love the SEC. Georgia looks pretty tempting. They always have a great defense and good skill position players. My nephew is at Texas. I was close to going to Texas when I was being recruited over 20 years ago. They’re playing great and will be in the SEC next season. I’d put Oklahoma in the same boat. Those three schools would be at the top.

The Spun: In Week 2, the Giants pulled off an epic comeback against the Cardinals. The Cowboys failed to do so in Week 3. Do you get any joy from that?

EM: I’m not typically an Arizona fan, but if they’re playing against an NFC East team, you gotta root for them. It’s all about keeping the division race tight. I was definitely rooting for Arizona this weekend. 

The Spun: Are there any quarterbacks who have really impressed you so far this NFL season?

EM: That’s tough. I haven’t seen every single game this season, but I know C.J. Stroud is playing well in Houston. Even though he’s a rookie, they’re asking a lot of him. I’ve been really impressed watching him. Of course, some guys like Patrick Mahomes and Tua Tagovailoa are playing well. Tua might be playing as well as anybody at the quarterback position.

You can read more of our interviews with athletes and media stars here.