Believe it or not, Peyton Manning sent an open invitation to a former United States president this Monday night.
The two-time Super Bowl champion and five-time MVP unveiled his wish list for the “Manningcast” during this Monday night’s game between the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings. He admit that he sent a handwritten letter to Pope Leo XIV in an effort to get him on the show. However, neither him nor Eli have received a response yet.
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Plenty of stars have appeared on “Manningcast” over the past few seasons. On Monday night alone, Eli and Peyton interviewed Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, Hall of Fame receiver Randy Moss and legendary actor Bill Murray.
That being said, Peyton has his sights set on interviewing former President George W. Bush.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – FEBRUARY 05: AFC head coach Peyton Manning looks on during the 2023 NFL Pro Bowl Games at Allegiant Stadium on February 05, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)Ethan Miller/Getty Images
The 14-time Pro Bowler has extended an open invitation to Pope Leo XIV, George W. Bush, Bradley Cooper and Tiger Woods. That’s the full list.
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“I made the effort. These are handwritten letters. If you’re watching, Your Holiness, this is an open invitation. Come on the show anytime,” Peyton said. “It’s you, it’s Tiger Woods, it’s Bradley Cooper, it’s President Bush, it’s Larry David…We’d love to have you, Your Holiness.”
When will the “Manningcast” return?
Although the “Manningcast” won’t be part of ESPN’s plans for Week 2, Eli and Peyton will return to the spotlight later this month.
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Here’s their remaining schedule for the 2025 season:
Week 3:Â Lions at Ravens
Week 5:Â Chiefs at Jaguars
Week 8:Â Commanders at Chiefs
Week 9:Â Cardinals at Cowboys
Week 10:Â Eagles at Packers
Week 11:Â Cowboys at Raiders
Week 12:Â Panthers at 49ers
Week 13:Â Giants at Patriots
Week 15:Â Dolphins at Steelers
Week 18:Â Matchup to be announced later this season
Maybe we’ll see one of Peyton’s dream guests on “Manningcast” later this season. That would certainly be a treat for the viewers.
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Even if that doesn’t happen, we’re pretty confident the Manning brothers will put together an awesome product this NFL season.
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Sep 9, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.