The Colts have finally found their backup quarterback. Indianapolis has signed Kerry Collins, first announced by owner Jim Irsay on twitter.
“We have agreed to terms with Kerry Collins…more details to come”
Now preparing for his 17th year, the veteran quarterback played in ten games last season with the Titans, throwing 14 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. Collins has played in the AFC South for the last five seasons, which bodes well for the Colts.
Indianapolis plays at Houston for the season-opener and some report believe the Colts have their doubts on Peyton Manning’s status.
There are reasons to be concerned. The four-time MVP has yet to practice with the team, at least publicly, as he is still rehabbing from neck surgery in May.
Just 18 days away from the opening game, Collins will need some time to get comfortable with this team and this offense.
Unlike most, I think this deal was made to solidify the backup position and not to “fill-in” for Manning like many think the first game.
I have no reason to believe Peyton won’t play in game one. And I won’t believe he’s out until I see Manning on the sidelines for play one.
This is an insurance policy, and hopefully nothing more.
“It is a good opportunity to have Kerry become part of the team,” Jim Caldwell said in a statement. “He is a veteran quarterback who has started many games and he brings dimension and depth to the quarterback position, which will be helpful. He is familiar with our division and will make a great addition to our roster.”
The Colts have wanted Collins for a while and it’s a terrific pickup because you know what you’re getting. Curtis Painter and Dan Orlovsky did not impress one bit in the first two preseason games. Fans have wanted a reliable backup since 2009 when Jim Sorgi left to go to the Giants.
On Sunday, former Colts coach Tony Dungy said on NBC’s Sunday Night Football, “Unless he’s dead, he’ll be up under center for the opening game.”
I’m right there with you Coach Dungy. Manning is a perfectionist and cares deeply about his consecutive start record, currently at 208 (most active). More importantly, he cares about his team and winning. I do think rehab to his injury has taken longer than first proposed, 6-8 weeks. He is still bothered by a pinch nerve in his neck.
I praise Colts management for finally getting this deal done. Collins is a veteran quarterback with quality experience in the league and most importantly, against the AFC South.
Kerry Collins announced his retirement from the NFL in July during the lockout. Collins accepted the deal, with the understanding that he will be on a Super Bowl-caliber team with the opportunity to play in a couple of regular season games should Manning not be available.
Even rival QB Tom Brady believe No. 18 will be ready, according to the Boston Herald.
”He’ll be playing. I know Peyton, he’s as tough as competitor as there is. So, it’s going to be hard to keep him out. I heard Coach Dungy say he’s have to be dead to keep him out.”
Jim Caldwell coached Collins at Penn State for a few years as quarterbacks coach, and Bill Polian drafted him in the 1995 draft as Carolina’s GM.
Collins is on his way to Indianapolis and will take his physical later this afternoon.
Too much has been made about the backup quarterback position, maybe with so little to talk about. Let the regular season begin!