The Indianapolis Colts lost Friday to the Green Bay Packers 24-21 thanks to two scores in the final 35 seconds for the defending Super Bowl Champions. And the four-time MVP has yet to take a snap in the preseason for the Colts, still recovering from neck surgery.
On the sidelines, Peyton Manning was more involved with in-game adjustments, play calling and he provided advice to his backups. During the game, he even took the time to speak with Sam Ryan on CBS.
The first question Ryan asked of course, is whether he’ll be ready to go on September 11th in Houston.
“Boy, I sure hope so. I’ve never missed a game my entire football career due to an injury, since I was all of 13 years old. I sure don’t want to start Week 1 (missing a game) this season. That’s my goal, to be out there, to play and not just to play but to play competitively. I want to be out there to help my team win. And if I’m able to do so, I’ll be out there. I’m going to use this valuable time these next few weeks and see what happens with it when the time is right.”
Manning has been very low-key since last season – he hasn’t even confirmed the birth of twins on March 31st. He later held workouts with teammates in an undisclosed location and in May had neck surgery. Since, he hasn’t taken any snaps publicly.
No. 18 is anxious to return to the field with his teammates, but he isn’t sure when that may be.
“At the appropriate time, I’ll know what the right decision is.”
After the game, head coach Jim Caldwell said Manning may be activated off the physically unable to perform (PUP) list before the Colts’ preseason finale in Cincinnati next Thursday.
“I wouldn’t say I’m 100 percent certain, but I would say it’s a realistic possibility and it could happen shortly.”
It would have to take something very serious to keep Peyton off the field in Houston. I have little doubt he will line up under center to start the season. Now, how effective he will be from the outset is another story.
Manning has started 208 consecutive regular season games.