The Facts:
Following up on the
ongoing drama. ... ESPN aired an “exclusive” interview with Manning on Tuesday afternoon. During the first part of the conversation — the interview aired in separate parts — Manning confirmed to Trey Wingo that he plans to play football in 2012. “Doctors and I have been in good, constant communication,” said Manning. “And I’m very encouraged by what they’ve said. Everything’s right on point, I’ll be cleared and ready to play.”
Reported by Profootballtalk.com
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
Unfazed by reports that his playing days are over, Manning is continuing his rehab process with full intentions of continuing his career. Manning appeared to be less-than-comfortable throughout the interview -- which aired in two parts over the course of this hour -- and repeatedly tried to shift the focus to the fact that Indianapolis is hosting the Super Bowl and that his situation with the Colts should not be the biggest story this week. Manning also said multiple times that he wouldn't be discussing his future with owner Jim Irsay this week. Pressed as to when that discussion might take place, Manning limited his reponse to "after this week." It's also worth noting the interview appeared to be part of an obligation to promote Gatorade. We wonder if he would have done the sit-down had he not been obligated to do so. ... Whatever the case, as PFT's Evan Silva notes, after the first part of the interview, Adam Schefter suggested on ESPN’s The Insiders program that Manning is destined to become “the most decorated and high-profile free agent in NFL history. ..." That certainly still seems to be the most likely outcome. But we suspect not until after a protracted period of uncertainty surrounding his health and ability to play. ... In other words: Stay tuned.
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