Peyton Manning: Latest Word from Archie Manning Means End of Era in Indy

And so the end of the Peyton Manning era in Indianapolis will come to a close in the most unassuming manner possible, but that is only if we buy into words from father Archie Manning. 

One of the best to ever play the game and the brightest to wear a Colts jersey really needs his own parade at the mere mention of his end in Indy. What may happen is just to sad to contemplate. 

On Monday, Archie Manning was on Yahoo Sports radio with Craig Shemon. The audio for the interview can be found here. 

The former NFL quarterback delved into his son, Peyton, and the lingering neck injury that kept Manning from the 2011 season. The big item of note was what Archie had to say about the 2012 season. 

It seems that Archie is not the least bit confident that Peyton will be healthy enough to suit up and lead the Colts next season. When asked whether Manning would play, Archie simply stated:

"

I don't know. I think he is working real hard. Peyton wants to play. Um, its just, uh, he's got a good attitude about it and he's just trying to get his health back. He is getting better and we’ll just have to wait and see.

"

Shemon then talks about a crucial part of this story. He mentions that Jim Irsay stated that he would never trade Peyton Manning and would rather release him.

I am sure this is counter to the wishes of most Colts fans, who would love to get some return on one of the greatest arms in NFL history. 

The fact is, we may be looking at owner Irsay letting Manning go and pick the next team of his choosing. With the first pick in the draft, there is no question the Colts will be taking the NFL-ready Andrew Luck. 

If Manning's neck does indeed put next season into question, that only ramps up the need for a new quarterback. 

There was always a thought that Manning would retire in a Colts jersey and go out on his terms. A player that never wanted to take a seat may be ousted because of a nagging neck injury. 

There will be no parade or press conference if things continue in this way. Instead, a legend will merely pack his bags and hit the street. 

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