Steve Gleason didn’t just show up on the ManningCast Monday night - he stole the moment.
The New Orleans Saints legend joined Peyton and Eli Manning during the third quarter of the Saints-Falcons game, which came during the 20th anniversary of Gleason’s famous blocked punt from 2006. That play became an enduring symbol of resilience in New Orleans, but the night itself did not go well for the Saints on the field.
Gleason, though, left his mark anyway.
The broadcast rolled an old clip of Peyton Manning trying to punt, and Eli immediately asked the former Saints special teams standout how easy it would have been to block that kick. Gleason didn’t hesitate. With a brutal line aimed at Peyton’s famously large forehead, he delivered the kind of roast that had both brothers cracking up.
Using his communication device, Gleason responded: “Peyton, unfortunately for both of us, long before I hit the ball, I [‘d] hit your forehead.”
It was a clean hit and an even cleaner punchline, and Peyton took it in stride.
Gleason retired from the NFL in 2008 after an eight-season career. Three years later, he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that has taken away his motor functions and physical independence over time.
He has lived with the condition for 15 years, relies on a mechanical ventilator to breathe, has no movement in his arms or legs, and uses a wheelchair. He communicates letter by letter through an eye-tracking computer tablet.
Despite all of that, Gleason continues to live a purposeful life.
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