So much for the straight-to-retirement talk for Peyton Manning, eh?

Five months after undergoing spinal fusion surgery, Manning on Thursday was medically cleared by doctors to resume his quarterbacking career. Manning's clearance will certainly make the Indianapolis Colts' offseason plans a little more interesting, as it is unknown whether or not the club will pick up the $28 million option bonus in Manning's contract. If the Colts decline to pay the bonus, which is due by March 8, Manning will become an unrestricted free agent.

The issue for Manning is now whether or not he can fully regenerate the nerves in his triceps and regain the arm strength he possessed prior to his neck surgery.

The Colts are expected to take Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck with the No.1 overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.