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Joe Thomas reveals why he turned down Peyton Manning and refused to leave the Browns

Joe Thomas has revealed why he refused to force a trade away from the Cleveland Browns, even when Peyton Manning personally tried to convince him…

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Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 8:06 AM

Key Things to Know

Joe Thomas revealed he refused to force a trade to Denver despite Peyton Manning personally recruiting him in 2015.
Manning asked Thomas to tell Browns management he wanted a trade so a pending deal could proceed.
Thomas chose loyalty to Cleveland over chasing a Super Bowl ring, remaining with the franchise until retiring in 2018.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas revealed on The Dan Patrick Show that he refused to force a trade to the Denver Broncos, despite personal recruitment from Peyton Manning ahead of the 2015 NFL trade deadline. Manning had asked Thomas to inform Browns management that he wanted an exit, but Thomas declined.

Thomas explained that he valued his loyalty to Cleveland and wanted to build a legacy there rather than chase a championship elsewhere. Although the Broncos went on to win the Super Bowl that season, Thomas remained with the Browns until retiring in March 2018.

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Joe Thomas reveals why he turned down Peyton Manning and refused to leave the Browns

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