Everyone knew it was coming, but it was just a matter of when. According to ESPN, Peyton Manning called the Broncos last night to let them know that it's official: he's leaving the NFL.Despite the fact that Manning's retirement was all but inked from the beginning of the season, as of a year ago, no one could have expected the two-time Super Bowl champion to go out with so much controversy. HGH allegations paired with a revived scandal from Manning's college career, when he allegedly sexually harassed a fitness trainer. You could call the time ripe for retirement, or you could see it as a sour final note, but as per nostalgic rituals, the man's legacy will be rolled out in the coming days with a lot of fanfare. Hall of Fame quarterback, Broncos executive vice president of football operations, and general manager John Elway was among the first to make a statement."When you look at everything Peyton has accomplished as a player and person, it's easy to see how fortunate we've been to have him on our team," Elway said. "Peyton was everything that we thought he was and even more—not only for the football team but in the community. I'm very thankful Peyton chose to play for the Denver Broncos, and I congratulate him on his Hall of Fame career."And it's true. Manning will go down as the five-time MVP quarterback who made it to four Super Bowls, reached the playoffs 15 of the 18 seasons he played, and finished as NFL's all-time leader in quarterback wins (186), passing touchdowns (539), and passing yards (71,940). He's etched himself into the history books for his work on the field. But as it goes, he will be remembered ultimately as a human being, flaws and all.