It's hard to argue with who Sports Illustrated chose for this year's Sportsman of the Year. Peyton Manning came from having his NFL career in doubt after his neck surgeries. He was still one of the greatest when he returned as a Bronco instead of a Colt, as he led his new team to the playoffs.
Manning got even better this year after winning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award. After dismantling the Ravens in the opening week with a seven touchdown-performance, the first since 1969, Manning currently leads the most efficient offense in the NFL. He leads the league in touchdowns (47), passing yards (4,811), and currently chases Tom Brady for most passing touchdowns in a season (50).
Mariano Rivera and David Ortiz were also being considered for the award, but Manning came out with the prize to be just the eighth NFL player to win in the award's 68-year history.
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[via Sports Illustrated]
