Peyton Manning broke Brett Favre's records for most career touchdown passes and passing yards in 2014 and 2015, respectively, but The Sheriff's reign at the top is unlikely to last much longer.

Manning retired with 71,940 career passing yards, but he only has 1,495 than Brees. Given the latter easily posts over 4,000 yards a year, it may only take him a few weeks into the 2018 season before Manning's run at the top ends.

As for career touchdown passes, Manning sits at 539, while Brees and Tom Brady share a third-place tie at 488. Brees is unlikely to throw 51 this season - which would tie the record - but if he plays two or three more years, the Super Bowl 44 champion should smash the passing touchdowns record as well.

So how does Manning feel about the idea that his two legendary records are on the cusp of being broken? At the Manning Passing Academy, the five-time MVP was asked about Brees surpassing him. And as expected, The Sheriff only had a polite response (via NOLA.com).

"I don't think it's a matter of if, it's just a matter of when," Manning said Friday at the annual Manning Passing Academy, per NOLA.com. "He deserves it. He's been a great player for a long time."

Brees has been remarkably precise and consistent since joining the Saints in 2006. He's tossed at least 4,000 yards each year and went nine consecutive years with at least 30 touchdowns, from 2008 to 2016.

The future Hall of Famer defeated Manning and his Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl 44, and Brees was named MVP of the big game. However, his Saints have only made the playoffs four times since - and they have yet to get back to the NFC Championship Game.

Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Manning warns that Brees cares more about the team's success than being in the individual record books.

"I know Drew feels the same way, you never play for individual records. Drew has been the ultimate team player," Manning said. "It's all about helping your team win. I know when he breaks any of these records it's not going to mean as much to him if the Saints don't win the game that day."

The Saints were on the verge of reaching the NFC Championship, but Marcus Williams botched a tackle on Stefon Diggs in the Divisional Round. Diggs sprinted to the end zone to win the game. But the Saints feature an excellent young core and figure to contend for Super Bowls again in 2018 and '19.

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