Former Broncos great Peyton Manning has been named the 10th recipient of the Lamar Hunt Award for Professional Football.
Manning earned the honor Wednesday for "his positive impact to the game, both on and off the field, during his illustrious playing career," according to a release.
He will be given the award on Feb. 24 during the 48th annual NFL 101 Awards. Both the AFC and NFC players and coaches of the year from the 2017 season will be honored alongside Manning.
The award, which was created in 2008, honors the legacy of Lamar Hunt, the Chiefs' founder. The award aims to recognize those who have helped to shape the NFL.
"In addition to being one of the greatest to ever play the game, Peyton Manning reshaped the way the quarterback position is played and transcended the sport to become one of the most popular athletes of his generation," said Clark Hunt, Chairman and CEO of the Kansas City Chiefs and son of the award's namesake. "Throughout his career and into retirement, he has handled the many demands of a superstar with class, respect and dignity. Our family is thrilled to add Peyton's name to the outstanding list of previous recipients over this first decade of the Lamar Hunt Award for Professional Football."
Manning spent four seasons in Denver, where he led the Broncos to two Super Bowl appearances and a Super Bowl 50 victory. He also earned MVP honors following the 2013 season.
Off the field, Manning has been involved in a number of philanthropic efforts.
"As much as Manning meant to the game on the field, his career as a high-profile NFL player was also marked by his acute understanding of the responsibilities that come with that position," the release said.
