Just because mom or dad happens to be a world famous athlete doesn't mean that he/she will be their child's favorite. Just ask Charlie Freeman, the young son of Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman, who seems to have taken a stronger liking to another player early on.
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A similar occurrence might be taking place in the life of Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning.
His son, Marshall, should have a lot to like when looking at his father's career, considering there are few quarterbacks who put up such gaudy stats as the elder Manning brother did throughout his career.
Unfortunately for Peyton, it looks like he might be in second place to a current star quarterback: Josh Allen.
On ESPN2's "Manning Cast," which has become a hit for fans who would like to watch "Monday Night Football" with some fun guest interviews, banter and analysis, the Buffalo Bills' signal-caller joined the show and was told just how much Peyton's son looks up to him.
"My son Marshall is the biggest Josh Allen fan. For his 10th birthday, I bought a Josh jersey, mailed it to Josh to autograph for my son," Manning said. "Josh sends a game-used jersey to my son Marshall. Grass stains, I mean, it's the coolest thing I've ever seen. I mean, Marshall's 11th birthday is going to be disappointing, Josh, after doing that.
"...That's cool. I'm okay with that. What's not cool is that our flag football team, we are the Bills, and you can put your last name on the back. My son's name is Manning, it's my name, it's my dad's name — I'd like him to put Manning on the back of his jersey. Instead, what does he put? J. Allen."
Oof. That's a tough blow, Peyton.
Imagine if Bronny James took the court at Sierra Canyon and — should players be allowed to customize their jerseys to their pleasure — rock a "Jordan" uniform. It's hard to see that happening.
Granted, if Manning was still in the NFL and tearing it up the way that Allen is right now, we doubt Marshall would be wearing any other jersey. It's likely just a case of bad timing here, and perhaps he'll grow older, see some highlights of his pops and reconsider.
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