ESPN’s Chris Mortensen is reporting that Peyton Manning has been “medically cleared to play.” It may sound like this is monumental news, but it’s really not.
This isn’t even ‘new’ news. Months ago, it was announced that Peyton’s latest neck surgery was successful and he had achieved firm fixation. This latest news is just an extension of that.
According to Mortensen, Dr. Robert Watkins, who performed the most recent surgery on the Indianapolis Colts quarterback’s neck, and neurosurgeon Dr. Hank Feuer both cleared Manning to resume his NFL career.
I still believe Peyton doesn’t know if he will ever play again. There is a lot riding on his health status, but it’s also important to get it right.
The biggest challenge for him, now, isn’t his neck but nerve regeneration. There are many questions that remain unanswered.
Does he have full feeling back in his throwing arm? Can he throw more than 20 yards? Accurately? Consistently? And most importantly, can he absorb a hit?
While this update sounds tremendous on the outside, it must be put it in context.
The Colts have until March 8th to decide whether to pay Manning $28M to remain under contract.
UPDATE: 1:30 A.M: Irsay tweet discounts the new info.
Peyton has not passed our physical nor has he been cleared to play for The Indianapolis Colts. Team statement coming on Friday.
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) February 3, 2012