Today, one of the NFL’s greatest hung up his cleats.

Peyton Manning walks away from the game a two-time Super Bowl champion, the Super Bowl XLI MVP, a five-time MVP, the winningest quarterback of all-time and the all-time leader in touchdowns and yards.

Not a bad run.

Manning will be remembered as a fierce competitor, student of the game and a winner.

Here are five things that young football players can take away from Manning’s 18 fantastic NFL seasons.

• Preparation can make you great. Throughout his career, Manning watched film, spent extra time on the practice field and worked hard to always know what was going to happen next. Young players should want to be prepared in the classroom so that hard work will translate between the hashes.
• Knowing your opponent gives you the best chance to win. Manning always wanted to be one step ahead of his opponent, and toward the end of his career that preparation helped make up for any diminishing skills. Manning’s dedication to the game was his biggest strength and is something that young players should aim to emulate.
• If you are injured, don’t be afraid to take time off. Manning suffered a serious neck injury and spent a full season in recovery. As a player nearing the end of his prime, it could have been devastating to his career. But Manning decided to take the time off, and it paid dividends. Athletes should always put their health and safety first, no matter the situation.
• Just because you are down, you’re not out. Manning was benched this past season after his play and his health started to decline. He did not know if he would ever take another snap under center, but worked hard every week to be ready. He acted as if he was going to play every day and never gave up on himself.
• Be grateful of your coaches and teammates. Whether in practice, after film sessions, in games or in the Super Bowl, Manning never stopped praising those around him. He constantly showed appreciation and gave credit to those who helped him grow as a football player and leader. Young players need to have that type of respect for their teammates, their coaches and the sport.

Regardless if you were a Colts or Broncos fan, regardless if you liked Peyton Manning or not, there is no denying the effect that he has had on the game of football.