Cooper and Ellen Manning may not be household names in the same way their famous brothers are, but they’ve carved out meaningful lives in their own right. While Peyton and Eli Manning dominate headlines as two of the most celebrated NFL quarterbacks of all time, Cooper and Ellen have remained largely behind the scenes, supporting their brothers while building careers and lives that reflect personal passion, resilience, and purpose.
Cooper Manning is known for his sharp wit, media savvy, and close-knit bond with his younger brothers. Ellen Manning, the only sister in the Manning family, has lived more quietly, yet her influence and support have been instrumental in shaping the family’s enduring legacy.
This article dives into the lives of Cooper and Ellen Manning, exploring their backgrounds, their roles within the Manning family, and how they’ve navigated life away from the spotlight. We’ll also touch on how their stories relate to broader themes of family, media, and personal identity.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Cooper and Ellen Manning
- Cooper Manning: From Sports to Media
- Ellen Manning: A Life of Quiet Strength
- The Manning Family’s Influence and Legacy
- Frequently Asked Questions
Biography of Cooper and Ellen Manning
Cooper Manning and Ellen Manning are the older siblings of former NFL superstars Peyton Manning and Eli Manning. Though they never played professional football themselves, they’ve been integral figures in the Manning family narrative, offering support, humor, and wisdom behind the scenes.
Cooper was born on March 6, 1971, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Ellen followed a few years later, born on November 28, 1976. Growing up in a football-centric household with their father, Archie Manning, a former NFL quarterback, and mother, Olivia Manning, the siblings were immersed in the world of sports from an early age.
Cooper and Ellen Manning: Quick Facts
Category | Cooper Manning | Ellen Manning |
---|---|---|
Full Name | Cooper Williams Manning | Ellen Manning |
Date of Birth | March 6, 1971 | November 28, 1976 |
Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana | New Orleans, Louisiana |
Family | Brothers: Peyton & Eli Manning Father: Archie Manning Mother: Olivia Manning | Brothers: Peyton & Eli Manning Father: Archie Manning Mother: Olivia Manning |
Occupation | Television personality, Executive | Private Life |
Education | University of Tennessee | University of Tennessee |
Cooper Manning: From Sports to Media
Cooper Manning may not have played in the NFL, but his presence has been strongly felt in the sports world—particularly through his work in broadcasting and media. He’s known for his quick humor, charm, and deep knowledge of football, which he picked up from growing up around the game and watching his father and brothers thrive in it.
He’s served as a studio analyst for Fox Sports, where he’s become a fan favorite for his candid takes and witty commentary. More recently, he’s worked with ESPN and other networks, offering insights on college and pro football. Beyond that, Cooper has been a key advisor to both Peyton and Eli, often acting as a sounding board and strategist during pivotal moments in their careers.
Cooper is also the CEO of Omaha Productions, a content company co-founded with Peyton Manning after Peyton’s retirement. The company has grown rapidly, producing award-winning content for major networks and streaming platforms, including Netflix and ESPN+.
Highlights of Cooper Manning’s Career
- Studio analyst for Fox Sports and ESPN
- Co-founder and CEO of Omaha Productions
- Regular guest on sports podcasts and radio shows
- Played a key role in launching the ManningCast
Ellen Manning: A Life of Quiet Strength
Ellen Manning has largely stayed out of the public eye, choosing instead to live a more private life away from the glare of the spotlight. Though less is known about her professional path, she’s been a constant source of love and support for her brothers, especially during their high-pressure careers in the NFL.
Like Cooper, Ellen attended the University of Tennessee, where she was close to her brothers during their college years. While her career path hasn’t been widely publicized, her role as a sister, confidante, and emotional anchor in the Manning family should not be underestimated.
Ellen’s presence is often felt in interviews and family moments shared by Peyton and Eli. She’s described as the glue that holds the family together, offering perspective and warmth amid the chaos of fame and football.
The Manning Family’s Influence and Legacy
The Manning name is synonymous with football excellence, but it’s also become a symbol of resilience, integrity, and family values. Cooper and Ellen may not have played on the field, but they’ve helped shape the legacy that Peyton and Eli built.
They’ve offered support during tough losses, celebrated victories, and provided emotional grounding when the pressures of the NFL became overwhelming. In many ways, they represent the balance between public success and private strength that has defined the Manning family.
Their story also reflects a broader truth about family: behind every great athlete, there are people offering encouragement, guidance, and unconditional love. Cooper and Ellen Manning are living examples of that truth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Cooper Manning do for a living?
Cooper Manning works in sports media and entertainment. He’s a television analyst and co-founder of Omaha Productions, a content production company that creates original shows for networks like ESPN and Netflix. He’s also known for his witty appearances on sports talk shows and podcasts.
Is Ellen Manning involved in the NFL or media?
Ellen Manning has not pursued a public career in the NFL or media. She’s chosen to live a more private life, though she remains a strong emotional presence for her brothers, especially during major moments in their careers.
How many Manning brothers are there?
There are three Manning brothers: Cooper Manning (oldest), Peyton Manning, and Eli Manning. Cooper is not a professional football player but has been influential in their careers and media ventures.
Learn more about Cooper and Ellen Manning
For more information on how family support shapes athletic success, Learn more about family dynamics in sports on our site. Also, check out this page for related articles on NFL families and their behind-the-scenes roles.



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