INDIANAPOLIS -
Could this be the end of Peyton Manning's career, not only as a Colt, but in the NFL?
According to a Yahoo.com Sports Report, NFL doctors are saying the nerves in Manning's arm are not healing as quickly as hoped, and they don't seem to be progressing enough to show if he will play again. Doctors say the vertebrae in his neck that were fused have healed. Manning began throwing in December, but he hasn't shown improvement in velocity on his passes.
In addition, two league-affiliated doctors with experience in spinal fusion surgery, say it could take up to a year before Manning knows if he can return. Both say the risk is too great for Manning to play again and, because of the timeline, would not recommend the Colts pay Manning the $28 million bonus he is owed in March.
Manning couldn't be reached for comment.
Colts owner Jim Irsay declined to talk about Manning's health on Monday before a news conference, but did say, "There are no cases of quarterbacks going through this." Irsay may be forced to let his star quarterback go, though.
As for Manning's side of it, he remains confident that he will return to the field next season. In an interview with the Indianapolis Star's Bob Kravitz, Manning expressed his frustration on the firings of so many people he's worked with over the years, including team president Bill Polian and coach Jim Caldwell. While Manning understands the team needing to move forward, he believes he will be able to play again.
Eyewitness News will continue to follow this developing story and bring you the latest information as we get it.
