Posted by Sabrina B. @gametimegirl
An unconfirmed report from an Indianapolis radio station, saying Colts quarterback Peyton Manning required a second neck surgery that would sideline him indefinitely, sent the Twitter world into a frenzy Sunday.
The Indianapolis Colts currently have no plans to attempt another surgery on Peyton Manning’s neck, a source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. The team is expected to make an announcement later Monday.
The tweet, from 1070-AM The Fan, read, “Been told by multi sources that QB P Manning needs a 2nd neck procedure. Will remain out indefinitely.Called #colts and waiting on response.”
It spurred a strong response from Colts fans questioning its legitimacy, particularly after Colts president Bill Polian told Sports Illustrated, “I don’t know anything about that. I honestly don’t,” when asked about the report.
ESPN, citing sources, later reported that no new procedure was planned “as of now,” but that the Colts were “getting multiple opinions” and were “still waiting for answers on slow progress” in Manning’s recovery since his last surgery in May.
Manning was activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list Monday, having been sidelined the entire preseason, but Sunday’s reports suggested it was unlikely he would be ready for Week 1 against the Houston Texans on September 11.
Later, Colts owner Jim Irsay responded on Twitter with this: ”There is nothing2say on Peyton’s status except we move cautiously n deliberately on projecting,beyond day2day,his healing process n recovery.”
According to the NFL Network, the Colts remained in doubt as to when the four-time league MVP will be able to play again, while Sports Illustrated reported he may also be suffering a back problem.
Manning’s health has been a major concern for the Colts throughout the offseason and led to the signing of veteran quarterback Kerry Collins out of retirement last month, in case the 35-year-old missed the season opener.
Manning, who has started 227 consecutive games for the Colts, underwent two surgeries on his neck in a 15-month span. The procedure in May was meant to repair a nerve problem, while his previous surgery in March 2010 was performed to remove a buildup of calcium in his neck.
