The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... Colts owner Jim Irsay obviously didn’t care for some of Manning’s comments earlier in the week. After introducing new head coach Chuck Pagano today, Irsay met with reporters and took some subtle but clear shots at the NFL’s only four-time MVP, who said earlier in the week that the Colts complex with so many getting fired wasn’t a healthy environment for his rehab from neck surgery. “Look, I have so much affection and appreciation for Peyton,” Irsay said. “We’re family, you know, we always will be and we are.” But then the team owner added, “He’s a politician,” all the while admitting both he and Manning were ultra-competitive types.

Diehards Line:That said, Irsay didn’t care for the tenor of some of Manning’s comments, which also made reference to not wanting to get into a war of words for public support. “I don’t think it’s in a good interest to paint the horseshoe in a negative light, I really don’t,” Irsay said. “He’s such a big part of that and everything else, but the horseshoe always comes first. ... Irsay had already seemed to react to Manning’s Monday comments in an exclusive interview with the Star when the owner tweeted Wednesday, “Knowing medical situation last yr. n still paying $26,000,000.00 to #18,I've no regrets.It was right thing2do,I'm not pissed,contrary2rumor.” Irsay reiterated today a decision on Manning’s future – and if the team will pay a $28 million team option on March 8 or let him become an unrestricted free agent – will be reached by them together.