Charlie Manning’s Halloween Choice Sparks Family Banter

Right now, it seems that Eli Manning is really hoping to rack up wins for his son Charlie’s football fandom.

The 7-year-old was seen wearing a Giants jersey for Halloween, but it wasn’t his dad’s familiar No. 10 from his 16-year Giants career, which included two Super Bowl titles that made him a legend in the franchise.

No, Charlie is quite taken with Jackson Dart, the rookie quarterback who wears No. 6. He’s brought a refreshing energy to the team and has been working hard to turn things around for the organization, completing a significant rookie season already.

“Charlie said he wanted to wear his favorite jersey,” Eli mentioned on social media. “For Halloween, all quarterbacks of all time…wish came true,” he added with a hint of humor.

At least the kid is rooting for the Giants, right?

Eli discussed his son’s costume choices during “Monday Night Football” with his brother Peyton. It was all in good fun during the latest “Manning Cast.”

Eli shared on air, “Charlie dresses up as Jackson Dart for Halloween.” Peyton quickly chimed in with a light-hearted jab.

“Doesn’t it sting a bit? That he’d pick another Giants quarterback instead of you?” Peyton asked, clearly aiming to stir the pot.

“Yeah, it hurts a little,” Eli admitted, a wry smile probably creeping across his face.

But it turns out Charlie doesn’t see this as a one-time deal; he wants to wear the costume every day, which brought more chuckles.

“We got it last week, and he’s like ‘I wanna wear it to school daily.’ I had to draw the line. No, no, no! Halloween costume only,” Eli explained, chuckling at the situation.

“I guess he’s trying to outshine us,” he continued. “A smokescreen to wear it longer, perhaps?”

It’s hard to blame Charlie, really. Dart stepped up in a big way, taking the starting role and leading the Giants to their first win of the season against the Chargers. He even energized the team further by guiding them to a notable victory over the Eagles.

This week, Dart was asked about Charlie’s costume during a press conference. His reaction was priceless. “I think it’s awesome. I’ve met Charlie a few times,” he said with a smile. “You know, I think Eli might be a tad disappointed.”

Eli, also a dad to three daughters, is probably hoping that other children don’t follow suit anytime soon. It all makes for good family banter and a fun Halloween memory!