Jim Irsay has made it clear finally how the situation with Peyton Manning will play out.
Mike Campbell of the Indianapolis Star is reporting that Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has stated the decision on whether or not Peyton Manning remains with the team he lead to Superbowl XLI will be made by the quarterback himself.
For weeks now we have followed the tit for tat arguments and counter arguments. During this time, it has largely been assumed that Manning was leaving Indianapolis. Now Irsay has finally laid his hand on the table and we will find out exactly what Peyton Manning wants.
Irsay had this to say:
"“We can make it work if he wants to be here. We’d be excited to have him back and finish his career with us. I want him to be able to make the choice. We would love to have him back here if he can get healthy and we can look at doing a contract that reflects the uncertainty of the . . . healing process with the regeneration of the nerve.’’"
Irsay is expected to meet with Manning within a week to get a decision from his star quarterback. No doubt this decision will entirely depend on Manning’s health and ability to play effectively. It will also require Manning to restructure his contract to not only make it incentive laden based on playing time and performance, but also the Colts have a number of free agents to pay and as such there is the need for Manning to also help Indianapolis with their salary cap issues.
"“There’s no question it can be worked out if he wants to be here. It can work if he wants to come back and can get back to being the old Peyton.’’"
One thing is blatantly obvious right now – if Peyton Manning wants to stay in Indianapolis, the ball is entirely in his court.
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