Ole Miss Rebels Spark Excitement as Legendary Quarterback Eli Manning Returns to Inspire Program and Strengthen Championship Dreams…read More….

Oxford, MS – Ole Miss football fans have reason to celebrate as the program officially welcomes back legendary quarterback Eli Manning, one of the most iconic players in school history. Manning’s return marks a defining moment for the Rebels, bringing leadership, inspiration, and national attention as the program looks to elevate its championship ambitions in the coming seasons.

Manning, who starred at Ole Miss from 2000 to 2003, left behind an unmatched legacy before embarking on a storied NFL career. He set or tied nearly 50 school records, earned the 2003 Maxwell Award as college football’s best all-around player, and guided the Rebels to a 10-win season and a Cotton Bowl victory in his senior year. Manning’s on-field brilliance and off-field humility made him a beloved figure in Oxford, where his family name still resonates deeply thanks to his father, Archie, another Ole Miss legend.

Now, two decades after his college days, Manning’s return is viewed as a game-changing moment for the program. Head coach Lane Kiffin emphasized the significance of having him back: “Eli Manning is not just a Rebel great—he’s a symbol of everything this program stands for. To have him return and be part of our journey moving forward will inspire our players, strengthen our culture, and excite our fans like never before.”

Fans across Mississippi and beyond have flooded social media with excitement, celebrating the reunion with one of their all-time heroes. Manning’s presence is expected to boost the Rebels’ recruiting appeal, provide mentorship to current quarterbacks, and strengthen the bond between past and present generations of players.

For Manning, the return is about giving back to the program that helped shape his career. “Ole Miss has always been home to me,” Manning said. “The experiences I had here prepared me for life on and off the field. To be back and to have the chance to support this program means the world to me. I’m ready to pour into these young athletes and help them succeed.”

Beyond his football legacy, Manning is known for his philanthropy, community involvement, and continued support of his alma mater. In 2021, Ole Miss honored him by renaming its football facilities the Manning Center, a lasting tribute to the family’s contributions to the university. His renewed involvement with the program adds another layer of prestige and optimism.

With Eli Manning back in Oxford, Ole Miss enters the 2025 season with a surge of momentum. His presence rekindles memories of past glory while signaling a bright future ahead. Fans, alumni, and players alike are uniting around the belief that the Rebels are on the verge of something special—and that their legendary quarterback may once again help guide them toward greatness.