Peyton says timing isn't right to join MNF: 'Maybe it will never be'
Peyton Manning acknowledged Thursday that he had discussions with ESPN about joining its Monday Night Football broadcast.
Manning's name has been linked to the job since his retirement from the NFL after the 2015 campaign. The position previously occupied by Jason Witten became vacant this offseason when the tight end chose to return to the Dallas Cowboys after one year in the booth.
"I talked to the Monday Night Football folks. I enjoyed talking to them. I had great conversation. It wasn't the right time this year. Maybe it will never be," Manning said, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic.
The 43-year-old former quarterback says he spends much of his time with family and volunteering with his children's sports teams. However, he didn't shut the door on a future role in the NFL or broadcasting.
"I enjoy talking and listening," he said. " ... I think that's all you can do is listen and who knows what it leads to down the road."