All eyes around the NFL are on Indianapolis this week, awaiting a decision from the Indianapolis Colts and Peyton Manning on the future of the 4-time league MVP. Manning is scheduled to receive a $28 million roster bonus, activating the next portion of his contract, on March 8, five days before the start of the new league year, therefore not allowing for a trade. The Colts own the first overall pick this year, and are expected to select Andrew Luck with the pick, landing a franchise quarterback to replace their future Hall of Fame quarterback.
Manning has had four neck surgeries over the past two years, and missed all of the 2011 season as he worked his way toward recovery. His neck has been cleared for his return to the field, however, a nerve between his neck and triceps was damaged and must regenerate. That regeneration takes time, and affects Manning's ability to throw the ball with any strength.
Today, ESPN's Chris Mortensen is reporting that Manning has begun "aggressive" throwing at Duke University. Manning was seen at the college throwing in a Colts jersey, helmet, and shoulder pads. According to Mortsensen's report, Manning has been at Duke since Tuesday, conducting the workouts in full gear.
Maybe more telling of where Manning stands in his recovery is a video posted to YouTube of the workouts. As Mortsenen writes, "Manning can be seen in a video clip posted late Friday on YouTube, independently verified as authentic, making apparent encouraging progress in his recovery from the surgery that sidelined him for the 2011 season."
Manning can be seen in a video clip posted late Friday on YouTube, independently verified as authentic, making apparent encouraging progress in his recovery from the surgery that sidelined him for the 2011 season.