2011 Indianapolis Colts discussion

[MWM]

Schaub over Manning moving forward? That's a good one....

[bucksfan2]

Did Manning run over your dog or refuse you an autograph? You seem to take a shot at him at every given chance. A healthy Manning or Matt Shaub? Really? Not even that close? ummmm ok.

Never really cared for Manning but he didn't run over my dog. From an outsiders perspective, once it became apparant that the Colts were the leaders for the "Suck for Luck" campaign the Mannings began to distance themselves from the Colts. Archie went on the national media saying Peyton wouldn't want to play with Luck on the team. Peyton's soundbites were that he wanted out of town.

Going forward Schaub is 5 years younger than Manning and not coming off of neck surgery. Manning will be 36 heading into next season, Schaub 31. So yea I would take Schaub over Manning heading forward.

[George Anderson]

Peyton's soundbites were that he wanted out of town.

.

Where and when did Manning say this?

I have said for sometime I don't think Manning would shed a tear if he was able to leave Indy and go get one more chance at a ring somewhere else but no way Manning would come out in the media and hint or talk about how he wanted out of town. He is to smart and media savy to do that.

[bucksfan2]

Where and when did Manning say this?

I have said for sometime I don't think Manning would shed a tear if he was able to leave Indy and go get one more chance at a ring somewhere else but no way Manning would come out in the media and hint or talk about how he wanted out of town. He is to smart and media savy to do that.

I think his media savy comments did exactly that. He never came out and said he wanted to leave but I thought his comments when the Polians were fired kinda showed some displeasure with the Colts organization.

[George Anderson]

I think his media savy comments did exactly that. He never came out and said he wanted to leave but I thought his comments when the Polians were fired kinda showed some displeasure with the Colts organization.

I reread the article where Manning commented on Polian being fired. What quote exactly showed displeasure with the Colts organization?

[bucksfan2]

I reread the article where Manning commented on Polian being fired. What quote exactly showed displeasure with the Colts organization?

It was more the reporting of Manning being shocked and disappointed with the Polians departure. Maybe I am seeing something that isn't there. I just think that the Manning camp has been in get Peyton out of Indy for the past couple of months.

[George Anderson]

It was more the reporting of Manning being shocked and disappointed with the Polians departure. Maybe I am seeing something that isn't there. I just think that the Manning camp has been in get Peyton out of Indy for the past couple of months.

I saw the whole Manning was shocked over the Polian firing as being comical. One thing is for sure, there was a bit of a rift between Polian and Manning and don't think for a minute Manning doesn't have the pull to get rid of anyone in the organization he doesn't like.

[Sea Ray]

Did Manning run over your dog or refuse you an autograph? You seem to take a shot at him at every given chance. A healthy Manning or Matt Shaub? Really? Not even that close? ummmm ok.

Where did Buck mention a "healthy" Manning? Seems to me you're trapping him by slipping that word in there. I can't speak for him but my guess is his point is that Peyton may never be "healthy" again. He'll always be an upper 30s QB who's had three neck surgeries. If Peyton never plays another down his comparison of Peyton and Schaub will be prophetic

[fearofpopvol1]

Never really cared for Manning but he didn't run over my dog. From an outsiders perspective, once it became apparant that the Colts were the leaders for the "Suck for Luck" campaign the Mannings began to distance themselves from the Colts. Archie went on the national media saying Peyton wouldn't want to play with Luck on the team. Peyton's soundbites were that he wanted out of town.

Going forward Schaub is 5 years younger than Manning and not coming off of neck surgery. Manning will be 36 heading into next season, Schaub 31. So yea I would take Schaub over Manning heading forward.

This is littered with a lot of large reaches and irresponsible assertions on your part IMO.

The Colts didn't "suck for luck" on purpose, they just weren't any good without Peyton. They certainly wanted to win their games, they just didn't.

Archie never said Peyton wouldn't want to play with Luck, he said "I don't think it'd necessarily be great for either one." That's a large difference than "Peyton wouldn't want to play with Luck on the team." As another posted pointed out, unless you have an exact quote of Peyton saying he wanted out of town, you're unfairly speculating and trying to pass it off as fact.

As for your claim that you'd take Schaub over Manning heading forward, let's just say that I'm glad you're not the GM of a team I root for.

[bucksfan2]

This is littered with a lot of large reaches and irresponsible assertions on your part IMO.

The Colts didn't "suck for luck" on purpose, they just weren't any good without Peyton. They certainly wanted to win their games, they just didn't.

The Colts were one of the worst football teams I have seen in recent history. They didn't "suck for luck" on purpose but there were games in which they looked like they gave up. It was worse than some of the Bengals seasons from the 90's.


Archie never said Peyton wouldn't want to play with Luck, he said "I don't think it'd necessarily be great for either one." That's a large difference than "Peyton wouldn't want to play with Luck on the team." As another posted pointed out, unless you have an exact quote of Peyton saying he wanted out of town, you're unfairly speculating and trying to pass it off as fact.

When I head what Archie said the first think that came to my mind was the Mannings were going to attempt to get Peyton moved. It was said the porper way but it still didn't leave me with any doubt that, at least Archie, wanted Peyton somewhere else next year.


As for your claim that you'd take Schaub over Manning heading forward, let's just say that I'm glad you're not the GM of a team I root for.

Your going to bet that a 36 year old Manning coming off of 3 neck surgeries is going to be a better QB going forward then that is your perrogative. I wouldn't make that gamble. There becomes a time when even the greatest QB's can avoid father time. Peyton's is creaping up on him, maybe quickened with a few neck surgeries and a year away from the game.

[redsfanmia]

Where did Buck mention a "healthy" Manning? Seems to me you're trapping him by slipping that word in there. I can't speak for him but my guess is his point is that Peyton may never be "healthy" again. He'll always be an upper 30s QB who's had three neck surgeries. If Peyton never plays another down his comparison of Peyton and Schaub will be prophetic

I think most teams would take Manning at 75% over Schaub, but I am a Colts fan. Buck has made comments about Manning before, thats fine he doesn't like the guy I get it.

[RiverRat13]

If I'm Peyton Manning and I know I only have 2-3 years left, I'm throwing a fit if my team doesn't trade the #1 pick which could fetch a haul that plugs anywhere from 3-5 holes. From his standpoint, picking another QB that doesn't help the team until after his retirement makes no sense and not a situation I could see him living with.

[bucksfan2]

If I'm Peyton Manning and I know I only have 2-3 years left, I'm throwing a fit if my team doesn't trade the #1 pick which could fetch a haul that plugs anywhere from 3-5 holes. From his standpoint, picking another QB that doesn't help the team until after his retirement makes no sense and not a situation I could see him living with.

I am pulling a Carson Palmer and demand being traded to San Francisco.

Trading the #1 pick would bring a massive haul as of now. And if you are high on Landry Jones or Matt Barkley it would make sesne. But this is directed at a Colts fan, what are their needs? From my perspective they need a RB, WR, DL, LB, DB.

[Hoosier Red]

I am pulling a Carson Palmer and demand being traded to San Francisco.

Trading the #1 pick would bring a massive haul as of now. And if you are high on Landry Jones or Matt Barkley it would make sesne. But this is directed at a Colts fan, what are their needs? From my perspective they need a RB, WR, DL, LB, DB.

OL. DL. DB. With a decent line they can run the ball. If they were able to address those needs in the draft they could probably resign Wayne. They may still need another WR, but I could live with what they have. ALso they need to figure out what the deal with Dallas Clark was, Peyton Manning's a fantastic quarterback, but he doesn't cause a TE to drop passes in absentia.

[Sea Ray]

I think most teams would take Manning at 75% over Schaub, but I am a Colts fan. Buck has made comments about Manning before, thats fine he doesn't like the guy I get it.

A 36 yr old 75% Manning over Schaub? Let me give this little tidbit. At the beginning of the yr I was debating my Fantasy Football draft and how I'd rank the QBs and I got stuck on Schaub and Peyton. If it came down to those two, which one do I draft? It was a tough one. As it turns out, I was able to get my hands on Tom Brady so it never came down to that but it was a tough call.

So tell me, if you're in a Keeper League, do you draft Peyton ahead of Schaub for 2012?

[Eric_the_Red]

Let's not pretend that Schaub is the picture of health himself. Remember, these are the first games that Peyton has missed. It seems Schaub misses games almost every year.

[Newport Red]

Is there anything in Peyton's contract that makes him difficult to trade?

[redsfanmia]

A 36 yr old 75% Manning over Schaub? Let me give this little tidbit. At the beginning of the yr I was debating my Fantasy Football draft and how I'd rank the QBs and I got stuck on Schaub and Peyton. If it came down to those two, which one do I draft? It was a tough one. As it turns out, I was able to get my hands on Tom Brady so it never came down to that but it was a tough call.

So tell me, if you're in a Keeper League, do you draft Peyton ahead of Schaub for 2012?

Fantasy football is just that a fantasy. Has Matt Shaub ever played a full season? He gets injured alot. In real life football I think my chances of reaching the Super Bowl next year are better with a 36 year old Manning if he comes back at 75% strength and a 31 year old Shaub.

[fearofpopvol1]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2012/story/_/id/7435726/indianapolis-colts-draft-andrew-luck-stanford-cardinal-no-1-pick-sources-say

Irsay wants to take Luck it appears. Dungy said the same earlier on Football Night in America.

This news to me is thrilling, if true!

[Sea Ray]

Is there anything in Peyton's contract that makes him difficult to trade?

Yes. A $28mill bonus check that needs to be written before anyone knows if Peyton can play again:


Mort also reports both Irsay and Manning have emphatically denied discussing pushing back the March 8 due date for Manning's $28 million option bonus. The duo will "jointly determine" Manning's future, and the matter of Manning's potential release remains a "medical issue" for the time being. Our best guess remains that Manning will be released just before or on March 8. Jan 8 - 11:44 AMSource: Chris Mortensen on Twitter

[Sea Ray]

Fantasy football is just that a fantasy. Has Matt Shaub ever played a full season? He gets injured alot. In real life football I think my chances of reaching the Super Bowl next year are better with a 36 year old Manning if he comes back at 75% strength and a 31 year old Shaub.

I'm pretty confident Matt Schaub is coming back next year. I'm not so sure Peyton is. Are you?

[fearofpopvol1]

Looks like Archie has changed his tune...

http://www.stampedeblue.com/2012/1/10/2696935/archie-manning-is-talking-about-peyton-again

I imagine Archie (and Peyton) realize that there is no team in the NFL that will pay Manning what he is due to receive next year. I'm just hoping that Manning is willing to renegotiate some to help make cap room.

[George Anderson]

Ryan Grigson named new GM.

http://www.colts.com/

Interesting.

Some notes on Grigson, who turns 40 in February, courtesy of the Eagles:
•A native of Highland, Ind., he played tight end and offensive tackle for the Purdue Boilermakers from 1991-94, serving as a captain during his senior year.

•He’s been in his current post with Philadelphia for two seasons after four years as the team’s director of college scouting.

•He’s on the Butkus Award selection committee where he helps select the nation’s top collegiate linebacker.

•During 12 years as an NFL talent evaluator, Grigson’s teams have been to the playoffs seven times and have made three trips to the Super Bowl including winning one Super Bowl with the St. Louis Rams.

•Grigson has a good feel for the entire country. With the Rams, he started as a national combine scout before being promoted to an area scout, working in the Northeast, Midwest and Southeast regions during his tenure. He was the Eagles’ Western regional scout when he moved on to Philadelphia.

•He was a sixth-round draft choice of the Cincinnati Bengals out of Purdue in 1995. He spent that season as an offensive lineman with the Detroit Lions, then was with the team in training camp in 1996. He played with Toronto of the CFL in 1997 before a back injury ended his playing career.

•Following his playing career, Grigson became a pro scout with Saskatchewan of the CFL and an assistant coach at McPherson College in Kansas in 1998. He then joined the Buffalo Destroyers of the Arena Football League in 1999 as a player personnel coordinator and assistant coach.

•His younger brother Dru is currently a Midwest scout for the Arizona Cardinals.

•He and his wife, Cynthia, have two daughters and three sons.

[fearofpopvol1]

I can't say I know of Grigson all that well. I wonder if Irsay liked the hometown factor. At first glance, he looks like a good fit. Unproven as a GM, but someone who could potentially thrive. I'm not sure this is the guy I would have hired, but it could be worse. Certainly better than Chris Polian.

[Newport Red]

http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/7450014/report-not-all-new-york-jets-love-mark-sanchez-eye-peyton-manning

Rumors, rumors.

[George Anderson]

. Certainly better than Chris Polian.

Bingo

[Razor Shines]

I wonder if this guy is going to have control or if Irsay wanted a puppet? Irsay hasn't seemed like that guy before but it makes me wonder...we already know that Grigson doesn't have a choice on Manning and drafting Luck.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[redsfanmia]

I'm pretty confident Matt Schaub is coming back next year. I'm not so sure Peyton is. Are you?

Not positive but if Peyton comes back I would take him over Schaub.

[Sea Ray]

Not positive but if Peyton comes back I would take him over Schaub.

That's the big if. If he comes back and if he does how healthy will he be? Those surgeries very well could have taken a toll on his shoulder. It's certainly the story of the off season. It'll be interesting to follow

[redsfanmia]

That's the big if. If he comes back and if he does how healthy will he be? Those surgeries very well could have taken a toll on his shoulder. It's certainly the story of the off season. It'll be interesting to follow

Schaub gets hurt and misses games every year. As a Colts fan I hope Manning retires, its better to burn out than to fade away.

[Razor Shines]

Schaub gets hurt and misses games every year. As a Colts fan I hope Manning retires, its better to burn out than to fade away.

Not me. I hope he's a Colt but if not I'd be happy to see him get another ring somewhere else


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[WVRed]

http://phinphanatic.com/2012/01/11/is-fisher-waiting-on-colts/

Don't see this one happening. The Colts would be a better scenario than Miami or St Louis, but Fisher hasn't exactly shown he can win with a young QB. Kerry Collins and Steve McNair yes, but Vince Young not so much.

[cinredsfan2000]

http://phinphanatic.com/2012/01/11/is-fisher-waiting-on-colts/

Don't see this one happening. The Colts would be a better scenario than Miami or St Louis, but Fisher hasn't exactly shown he can win with a young QB. Kerry Collins and Steve McNair yes, but Vince Young not so much.

I kind of had that thought to about fischer maybe waiting to see what the colts do. I also dont think wiill happen but it sure is nice to hope .

As far as fisher not exactly being able to win with a young Q.B. Andrew luck is miles ahead of vince Young coming out of college . Was Fiscer the coach in Tennesse. When they drafted Steve Mcnair?

[Revering4Blue]

I kind of had that thought to about fischer maybe waiting to see what the colts do. I also dont think wiill happen but it sure is nice to hope .

As far as fisher not exactly being able to win with a young Q.B. Andrew luck is miles ahead of vince Young coming out of college . Was Fiscer the coach in Tennesse. When they drafted Steve Mcnair?

Yes.

Fisher also guided the 2007 Titans to a 10-6 record and a playoff berth with none other than Vince Young as QB. That's ample evidence that Fisher can win with a young (no pun intended) QB.

[RollyInRaleigh]

I would love to see Fisher here in Indy.

[fearofpopvol1]

No Fisher. I'd love to see the Colts try to pluck Bill Cowher though. I don't know that he's being considered, but he'd be my top choice.

[redsfanmia]

No Fisher. I'd love to see the Colts try to pluck Bill Cowher though. I don't know that he's being considered, but he'd be my top choice.

No thanks, other than Dick Vermeil has there been any coaches who took a long time off and came back to have any success?

I would rather have Caldwell back than Cowher.

[fearofpopvol1]

No thanks, other than Dick Vermeil has there been any coaches who took a long time off and came back to have any success?

I would rather have Caldwell back than Cowher.

How many of those coaches that you're referring to have won a ring?

I'd take Cowher in a heartbeat over Caldwell.

[Revering4Blue]

How many of those coaches that you're referring to have won a ring?

I'd take Cowher in a heartbeat over Caldwell.

So would I.

One problem: Cowher is going to command a major say-so over personnel. Will the new GM allow that?

I think we are looking at Marty Mornhinweg--Eagles OC--as head coach, for better or worse.

[George Anderson]

So would I.

One problem: Cowher is going to command a major say-so over personnel. Will the new GM allow that?

I think we are looking at Marty Mornhinweg--Eagles OC--as head coach, for better or worse.

I am only going on my gut feeling but I am not too overly impressed with what has gone on so for with the GM and coaching. I was hoping for more established bigger names. Again, just my gut feeling.

[fearofpopvol1]

So would I.

One problem: Cowher is going to command a major say-so over personnel. Will the new GM allow that?

I think we are looking at Marty Mornhinweg--Eagles OC--as head coach, for better or worse.

I'd feel comfortable with Cowher having that role personally. I think he knows talent.

[redsfanmia]

How many of those coaches that you're referring to have won a ring?

I'd take Cowher in a heartbeat over Caldwell.

If Cowher had the fire in his belly he would already be back in coaching. Its not going to happen and the way the off season has gone so far I think we will get Caldwell back and be start building for 2014.

[Eric_the_Red]

I don't see how the organization could sell they are serious about winning with Caldwell at the helm. He is plain overmatched in the NFL and needs to go.

[bucksfan2]

I don't see how the organization could sell they are serious about winning with Caldwell at the helm. He is plain overmatched in the NFL and needs to go.

Does the organization continue to listen to Tony Dungy? He is the leading promoter for Caldwell and in the past I think the Colts, even after he retired, listend to Dungy a little too much.

[Eric_the_Red]

Now it sounds like Caldwell will be brought back. An announcement is expected tomorrow I believe.

Ugh...I just don't get it. SMH

[redsfanmia]

If Caldwell comes back I think it means Manning will be back and playing, Caldwell is Mannings guy.

[Eric_the_Red]

If Caldwell comes back I think it means Manning will be back and playing, Caldwell is Mannings guy.

I would agree with this hunch. I also think it means the Colts will have Manning and Luck next year, unless Luck and his agent pull an Elway/Eli.

I'd personally love for Manning to come back for one more year (if healthy) and agree to tutor Luck. Then after the season, Manning retires from playing, agrees to stay on as QB coach, the Colts build a Manning statue outside of Lucas Oil Stadium, retire #18 and Andrew Luck leads them to the playoffs for another decade or so.

[George Anderson]

I would agree with this hunch. I also think it means the Colts will have Manning and Luck next year, unless Luck and his agent pull an Elway/Eli.

I'd personally love for Manning to come back for one more year (if healthy) and agree to tutor Luck. Then after the season, Manning retires from playing, agrees to stay on as QB coach, the Colts build a Manning statue outside of Lucas Oil Stadium, retire #18 and Andrew Luck leads them to the playoffs for another decade or so.

I have a hunch and I hope I am wrong but I am thinking Irsay wants Caldwell to stay. Otherwise would he of shown him the door when he showed the Polians the door. I really hope I am wrong because the last thing this organization needs is Jim Irsay getting back into meddling in football matters.

[redsfanmia]

Caldwell fired, now I hope Marty Morningwhig is not the guy.

[George Anderson]

Caldwell fired, now I hope Marty Morningwhig is not the guy.

No kidding.

[Sea Ray]

Caldwell fired, now I hope Marty Morningwhig is not the guy.

So much for ESPN and their "experts". Someone, I think it was John Clayton, gave the impression that Caldwell would be retained

[George Anderson]

Who are the leading candidates?

I wonder if it's Jim Tressell? He is on the payroll anyway.

[Eric_the_Red]

Who are the leading candidates?

I wonder if it's Jim Tressell? He is on the payroll anyway.

Aside from Tressel, some names I think you will hear (whether true or not):
Jon Gruden
Mike Zimmer
Steve Spanuolo
Perry Fewell
Bill Cowher

[Hoosier Red]

So much for ESPN and their "experts". Someone, I think it was John Clayton, gave the impression that Caldwell would be retained

The Colts beat writer wrote as much last night. He said he had no hard evidence, but rather had a gut feeling that Caldwell was coming back.

[redsfanmia]

Aside from Tressel, some names I think you will hear (whether true or not):
Jon Gruden
Mike Zimmer
Steve Spanuolo
Perry Fewell
Bill Cowher

Not a very impressive group, I hope they don't recycle someone I hope they hire a young guy who will be here a while.

No way you even hear Jon Gruden or Cowher's name mentioned and Spanulo won like 10 games in 3 years as Rams coach.

[George Anderson]

Not a very impressive group, I hope they don't recycle someone I hope they hire a young guy who will be here a while.

.

I kinda disagree, the GM having little experience is of concern to me. If a HC with little experience is hired along with a GM with little experience also then I don't think thats a good thing.

[redsfanmia]

I kinda disagree, the GM having little experience is of concern to me. If a HC with little experience is hired along with a GM with little experience also then I don't think thats a good thing.

You may have a good point there, didn't think of that. It's going to be interesting and in the press conference Grigson mentioned ushering in a "new era" makes me think Peyton may be gone.

[Eric_the_Red]

I think Zimmer could be a good hire. He has proved his value as a coordinator, and we all know the Colts D is what really needs help.

[fearofpopvol1]

I still really want Cowher, even though it's a longshot. I would be happy with Gruden too, but I don't see it. Otherwise, the list is kind of meh to me.

Even though I don't think Caldwell is that great of a coach, it's kind of hard to believe he was fired after getting the Colts to a Super Bowl and had 1 season that was awful due to Manning being out.

[bucksfan2]

I still really want Cowher, even though it's a longshot. I would be happy with Gruden too, but I don't see it. Otherwise, the list is kind of meh to me.

Even though I don't think Caldwell is that great of a coach, it's kind of hard to believe he was fired after getting the Colts to a Super Bowl and had 1 season that was awful due to Manning being out.

I think Caldwell was Dungy's guy and the Colts listend to Dungy a little too much once he reitred. I think Caldwell was way over his head as a head coach but I also think Peyton Manning, when on, can make any coach look good.

This may be contrary to what many believe, but I think Tressel would be a fantastic NFL coach. He coached games in college like a NFL coach. I don't know if teams would be willing to go to him so soon, but I think he could be very successful.

[TeamSelig]

So what is a reasonable deal for Peyton Manning? He is older, has injury concerns, etc. but is probably the best QB in the league if healthy.

[George Anderson]

So what is a reasonable deal for Peyton Manning? He is older, has injury concerns, etc. but is probably the best QB in the league if healthy.

The way I understand it Manning will be a free agent if the 28 million dollar bonus is not kicked in.

[TeamSelig]

So the talk of getting rid of Peyton and drafting Luck seems to be moot, if they cannot even receive any sort of compensation for trading Peyton.

[George Anderson]

So the talk of getting rid of Peyton and drafting Luck seems to be moot, if they cannot even receive any sort of compensation for trading Peyton.

Well if they don't have to pay Manning the bonus and no longer have to pay his salary then they will be money ahead.

IMO Luck is not going to come to Indy and sit a year and be "tutored" by Manning. As the potential #1 pick he has the leverage to demand that he plays now.

All the buzz seems to be that the Colts are drafting Luck so Manning likely will be a free agent.

[Sea Ray]

I still really want Cowher, even though it's a longshot. I would be happy with Gruden too, but I don't see it. Otherwise, the list is kind of meh to me.

Even though I don't think Caldwell is that great of a coach, it's kind of hard to believe he was fired after getting the Colts to a Super Bowl and had 1 season that was awful due to Manning being out.

What's the scoop with Cowher? Does he want a coaching gig or not? I can't tell

[UKFlounder]

But if he demands to "play now" and the Colts don't agree to it, what is he going to do - sit out, i.e. "not play" i.e. what he would be doing as the backup? In other words, would he protest not playing by deciding not to play?




Well if they don't have to pay Manning the bonus and no longer have to pay his salary then they will be money ahead.

IMO Luck is not going to come to Indy and sit a year and be "tutored" by Manning. As the potential #1 pick he has the leverage to demand that he plays now.

All the buzz seems to be that the Colts are drafting Luck so Manning likely will be a free agent.

[Eric_the_Red]

But if he demands to "play now" and the Colts don't agree to it, what is he going to do - sit out, i.e. "not play" i.e. what he would be doing as the backup? In other words, would he protest not playing by deciding not to play?

He could pull an Eli and say he won't sign to be a backup, more or less forcing their hand and making them trade Luck or the pick.

As for the potential for trading Peyton, the only way that could happen is if he agrees to push back the early March bonus date, which he most likely won't do. If the Colts really want Luck, and Manning doesn't adjust his bonus payout date, he will most likely be released in late February (just before the bonus).

Unless of course Peyton, the Colts and Luck's agent all talk and agree to some sort of deal to allow Luck to sit a year or so.

[Sea Ray]

But if he demands to "play now" and the Colts don't agree to it, what is he going to do - sit out, i.e. "not play" i.e. what he would be doing as the backup? In other words, would he protest not playing by deciding not to play?

If this is important to him, he (his Dad) should be negotiating with the Colts now. If he doesn't like the answers he can threaten to stay in school

[Eric_the_Red]

If this is important to him, he (his Dad) should be negotiating with the Colts now. If he doesn't like the answers he can threaten to stay in school

I read he signed with an agent. Is he allowed to go back to school now?

[Sea Ray]

I read he signed with an agent. Is he allowed to go back to school now?

I don't think so

[Eric_the_Red]

So this just happened:
http://sports.nationalpost.com/2012/01/18/did-rob-lowe-literally-just-announce-peyton-mannings-retirement/

If true, it is a shame that injuries forced Manning out, but I admit to being somewhat relieved not to have to endure watchign Peyton play for any other team.

[fearofpopvol1]

Well if they don't have to pay Manning the bonus and no longer have to pay his salary then they will be money ahead.

IMO Luck is not going to come to Indy and sit a year and be "tutored" by Manning. As the potential #1 pick he has the leverage to demand that he plays now.

All the buzz seems to be that the Colts are drafting Luck so Manning likely will be a free agent.

I know you've continued to voice this opinion, but I don't see it. Luck has already stated publicly he would be fine with learning from Peyton and Irsay said that if Peyton is healthy, he will be the starting QB next year. All signs point to Peyton being healthy by March, therefore I think Luck will be drafted and he will follow a path similar to Aaron Rogers.

I think the reason that Archie and Peyton haven't been saying much is that Peyton will not get anywhere close to what he would get as a Colt next year elsewhere. His paycheck is likely cut in half.

[fearofpopvol1]

What's the scoop with Cowher? Does he want a coaching gig or not? I can't tell

I don't know either. I think he's waiting for the "perfect gig" honestly. I don't know if the Colts gig is "perfect," but if Manning stays and Luck is drafted, how can that not be an enticing gig?

[fearofpopvol1]

But if he demands to "play now" and the Colts don't agree to it, what is he going to do - sit out, i.e. "not play" i.e. what he would be doing as the backup? In other words, would he protest not playing by deciding not to play?


He could pull an Eli and say he won't sign to be a backup, more or less forcing their hand and making them trade Luck or the pick.

As for the potential for trading Peyton, the only way that could happen is if he agrees to push back the early March bonus date, which he most likely won't do. If the Colts really want Luck, and Manning doesn't adjust his bonus payout date, he will most likely be released in late February (just before the bonus).

Unless of course Peyton, the Colts and Luck's agent all talk and agree to some sort of deal to allow Luck to sit a year or so.

Luck has already said he'll sit and learn from Peyton. He's a classy kid. So, this info that Luck will sit out or demand a trade is unfounded at this point.

[fearofpopvol1]

So this just happened:
http://sports.nationalpost.com/2012/01/18/did-rob-lowe-literally-just-announce-peyton-mannings-retirement/

If true, it is a shame that injuries forced Manning out, but I admit to being somewhat relieved not to have to endure watchign Peyton play for any other team.

I think Lowe has bad info and he even said he's not 100% sure. I see no chance Peyton would retire now when he has a few good years left.

[Sea Ray]

I think Lowe has bad info and he even said he's not 100% sure. I see no chance Peyton would retire now when he has a few good years left.

It depends on his health. He may not have a choice

[blumj]

So this just happened:
http://sports.nationalpost.com/2012/01/18/did-rob-lowe-literally-just-announce-peyton-mannings-retirement/

If true, it is a shame that injuries forced Manning out, but I admit to being somewhat relieved not to have to endure watchign Peyton play for any other team.
Has there been any confirmation yet from the rest of the brat pack? If it's true, what a goofy way for it to leak out.

[George Anderson]

. Luck has already stated publicly he would be fine with learning from Peyton and Irsay said that if Peyton is healthy, .

I take what a player tells the press with a grain of salt.

I hope you are right and he is willing to sit but I just don't see it. Keep in mind Aaron Rogers may have done it with GB but Rogers didn't have the pull Luck will have with being the #1 pick.

Plus can the Colts afford having that much money tied up in 2 players?

[top6]

Has there been any confirmation yet from the rest of the brat pack? If it's true, what a goofy way for it to leak out.

I'm not going to believe this at all until Judd Nelson confirms it.

[fearofpopvol1]

It depends on his health. He may not have a choice

All signs have pointed to him being healthy. I guess his health could be poor, but I don't see it.

[Eric_the_Red]

Manning's agent says Lowe's tweet would be the first he's heard of a retirement.

[Stray]

Kinda funny for Rob Lowe to randomly come outta left field with this noise.

[fearofpopvol1]

I take what a player tells the press with a grain of salt.

I hope you are right and he is willing to sit but I just don't see it. Keep in mind Aaron Rogers may have done it with GB but Rogers didn't have the pull Luck will have with being the #1 pick.

Plus can the Colts afford having that much money tied up in 2 players?

Eli Manning made it clear from the get go that he wanted nothing to do with San Diego. John Elway was the same with the Colts. I think Luck is a different mold and in a different class. I don't think he would throw a fit. Do you really think he would refuse to play or sit out a whole year to reenter the draft the following year? I don't think so. The other reason Luck makes sense is that if Peyton's recovery is hampered and/or if he reaggrevates that injury, Luck is there to step in.

Irsay said previously the Colts can pay both Luck and Manning, so they have the funds to make it work.

[Hoosier Red]

I take what a player tells the press with a grain of salt.

I hope you are right and he is willing to sit but I just don't see it. Keep in mind Aaron Rogers may have done it with GB but Rogers didn't have the pull Luck will have with being the #1 pick.

Plus can the Colts afford having that much money tied up in 2 players?

I think you're right that Rogers didn't have the same pull. It should also be noted that until about 2 years ago, that looked like an absolute disaster. Not everyone is so lucky to have a plan of no playing for 3 full years actually work out.

On the other hand, Luck won't have the pull other #1 draft picks who refused to sign had either. Elway had a baseball contract, and while it's doubtful that baseball would have worked out, it was a useful negotiating ploy.

And of course everyone thought (rightly or wrongly) that he reentered at Stanford in part to avoid having the Panthers select him. There are a lot franchises with fewer things that can go right than the Colts, it's actually a pretty good organization to be drafted into. If he were to hold back a year,there's no guarantee he'd move into a better situation, and of course he'd be a year older.

[George Anderson]

Irsay said previously the Colts can pay both Luck and Manning, so they have the funds to make it work.

Comments from sports figure have the same credibilty to me as comments from politicians. That isn't saying much.


http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/16480652/in-luckmanning-quandary-colts-only-have-one-move-and-it-aint-pretty

[gilpdawg]

Luck has already said he'll sit and learn from Peyton. He's a classy kid. So, this info that Luck will sit out or demand a trade is unfounded at this point.
Of course he'll say that publicly. Doesn't mean that he means it.

[fearofpopvol1]

Comments from sports figure have the same credibilty to me as comments from politicians. That isn't saying much.


http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/16480652/in-luckmanning-quandary-colts-only-have-one-move-and-it-aint-pretty

That's from a sportswriter from a month ago. What has Irsay said so far that hasn't been true?

[fearofpopvol1]

Of course he'll say that publicly. Doesn't mean that he means it.

What has Luck said that would have you or anyone else believe otherwise?

[George Anderson]

That's from a sportswriter from a month ago. What has Irsay said so far that hasn't been true?

So because the article was written a month ago all the info in it is suddenly invalid? If anything it helps support my point that whatever Irsay has said about having the money to sign both is basically mute because a new GM has been hired in the last month to make football decisions. Jim Irsay, unlike the owner our friends have in Cincy is not one who meddles in football affairs, so the decision as to what happens to Manning and Luck rests on the shoulders of the GM Ryan Grigson.

BTW here is an article from yesterday, the comments are basically the same thing the article I posted a month ago had but I am sure you find this one more credible for whatever reason.

http://www.prosportsextra.com/2012/01/mannings-luck.html

[fearofpopvol1]

So because the article was written a month ago all the info in it is suddenly invalid? If anything it helps support my point that whatever Irsay has said about having the money to sign both is basically mute because a new GM has been hired in the last month to make football decisions. Jim Irsay, unlike the owner our friends have in Cincy is not one who meddles in football affairs, so the decision as to what happens to Manning and Luck rests on the shoulders of the GM Ryan Grigson.

BTW here is an article from yesterday, the comments are basically the same thing the article I posted a month ago had but I am sure you find this one more credible for whatever reason.

http://www.prosportsextra.com/2012/01/mannings-luck.html

A month certainly changes the game. Manning is either closer to recovery or not (do we really know?), the Polians have been fired, Caldwell has been fired, the draft is closer. You can't discount these things when evaluating this upcoming decision.

Besides, when did sportswriters always get it right? That's news to me. I haven't seen any credible sources quoted by these sportswriters, just a bunch of supposition. It's merely an opinion piece that you happen to agree with, nothing more. And am I really supposed to take a random blogger's opinion seriously? That's not to say he (as well as the sportswriter) didn't make valid points. They did, but they're not close to the situation at all. They're just speculating.

Irsay has said himself that he will be the one to make the call on the #1 draft pick. What makes you think he would change that position suddenly? Irsay doesn't usually meddle, but this is one decision he will meddle in. It may impact his franchise for the next 2 decades.

[gilpdawg]

What has Luck said that would have you or anyone else believe otherwise?
Nothing. He's said nothing. I'm just a skeptic. How many times have guys said things for PR purposes that wound up not being truthful?

[bucksfan2]

Have Peyton or Archie come out and denied Rob Lowe's tweets? I haven't head anything from those two but I have heard more speculation that Lowe was accurate.

[George Anderson]

Have Peyton or Archie come out and denied Rob Lowe's tweets? I haven't head anything from those two but I have heard more speculation that Lowe was accurate.

"Archie, had the most reasonable: he laughed. Oh, and he also denied the rumor, saying if it were true, “I think [Peyton] would’ve told me.”"

http://www.sportsgrid.com/nfl/archie-manning-laughs-at-rob-lowe/


We are still waiting on Tom Hanks, Lou Ferrigno and Abbott and Costello to give their take on the Manning situation.

[George Anderson]

NM

[George Anderson]

Irsay has said himself that he will be the one to make the call on the #1 draft pick. .

Well sadly as per the Indy Star this morning you are correct. Irsay is calling the shots on the #1 pick which I have a problem with. He should have enough confidence in his GM to make the call and not him. Irsay should have some input but the final decision should come from the GM. The last thing we need is another Mike Brown.

It is all speculation and we will see. But I speculate Manning will be gone and Luck will be the new Colts QB.

[Sea Ray]

Well sadly as per the Indy Star this morning you are correct. Irsay is calling the shots on the #1 pick which I have a problem with. He should have enough confidence in his GM to make the call and not him. Irsay should have some input but the final decision should come from the GM. The last thing we need is another Mike Brown.

It is all speculation and we will see. But I speculate Manning will be gone and Luck will be the new Colts QB.

I don't think insisting on your GM taking the best QB prospect since Peyton necessarily means your owner is morphing into Mike Brown. In fact, only a "far out there" GM wouldn't take Luck when given the opportunity that presents irself to Indy

[George Anderson]

I don't think insisting on your GM taking the best QB prospect since Peyton necessarily means your owner is morphing into Mike Brown. In fact, only a "far out there" GM wouldn't take Luck when given the opportunity that presents irself to Indy

Drafting Luck is really a no brainer IMO. Like i said Irsay should have input of course because he is the owner, but he hired a GM to do the job so the final decision should rest with the GM.

[WVRed]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7486645/indianapolis-colts-interview-jim-tressel-coach-job-reports-say


Colts owner Jim Irsay flew to Florida on Friday and while there discussed the team's head-coaching job with former Ohio State Buckeyes coach Jim Tressel for a second time, according to reports.

Ok, so who here that jumped off the Bengals bandwagon wants to jump back on? This reeks of a Mike Brown move, and it's not even the Bengals.

Running Peyton off is going to alienate part of the Colts fan base. I can't imagine bringing Tressel in as head coach is going to bring them back together unless they start winning.

[Eric_the_Red]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7486645/indianapolis-colts-interview-jim-tressel-coach-job-reports-say



Ok, so who here that jumped off the Bengals bandwagon wants to jump back on? This reeks of a Mike Brown move, and it's not even the Bengals.

Running Peyton off is going to alienate part of the Colts fan base. I can't imagine bringing Tressel in as head coach is going to bring them back together unless they start winning.

Running Peyton off? Say what?

As for Tressel, if he can win games I'd be fine with it. Sure beats Brad Childress in my book. I really want Zimmer more but both he & Tressel could help the Colts D, IMO. The Saints OC would be nice too.

[fearofpopvol1]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7486645/indianapolis-colts-interview-jim-tressel-coach-job-reports-say



Ok, so who here that jumped off the Bengals bandwagon wants to jump back on? This reeks of a Mike Brown move, and it's not even the Bengals.

Running Peyton off is going to alienate part of the Colts fan base. I can't imagine bringing Tressel in as head coach is going to bring them back together unless they start winning.

Peyton hasn't been run out of town, even though the media has pained that narrative. Peyton's future in Indianapolis hinges on his health more than anything. It's a bit of an unknown at this juncture, but from what I've read, his recovery isn't going as quickly as hoped. He has some time, but not a lot.

I don't know if the Colts will hire Tressel or not, but Irsay isn't plagued with years upon years of awful decision making like Brown is. I'm not sure that's a fair comparison. I'd personally like Cowher or Gruden, but neither seems likely.

[redsfanmia]

Irsay is not where near Mike Brown, in fact he is the anti-Mike Brown. When Bob owned the team Jimmy ran the football operations and was in fact General Manager, after Bob passed and Jimmy took over he took a step back and hired Bill Tobin to run the football side then in a stroke of genius hired Bill Polian. Jimmy Irsay saying the Colts are going to draft Luck is a no brainer, how is that Irsay being Mike Brown?

[WVRed]

Irsay is not where near Mike Brown, in fact he is the anti-Mike Brown. When Bob owned the team Jimmy ran the football operations and was in fact General Manager, after Bob passed and Jimmy took over he took a step back and hired Bill Tobin to run the football side then in a stroke of genius hired Bill Polian. Jimmy Irsay saying the Colts are going to draft Luck is a no brainer, how is that Irsay being Mike Brown?

Very easy.

Andrew Luck is the consensus no 1 pick. I don't think anyone will disagree with that. That being said, the Colts don't have a GM yet and your owner is already saying who is being taken no 1 without any input from the new GM.

I'm sure whoever the new GM is would take Luck, but there needs to be other input as well. Of course I say this and the Bengals have Mike Brown as their GM.

And I do know the Colts have had more recent success, although that has been on the back of Peyton Manning more than anything. Peyton is the type of QB who makes the entire team and organization that much better (case in point, this season).

Ignore the baggage coming in by Tressel. College football coaches have RARELY made the transition to the pro's. Nick Saban, Bobby Petrino, Steve Spurrier, Dennis Erickson, Butch Davis, Rich Brooks, and Mike Riley all failed in the NFL. I don't think Tressel will play out.

[Eric_the_Red]

Ignore the baggage coming in by Tressel. College football coaches have RARELY made the transition to the pro's. Nick Saban, Bobby Petrino, Steve Spurrier, Dennis Erickson, Butch Davis, Rich Brooks, and Mike Riley all failed in the NFL. I don't think Tressel will play out.

Tom Coughlin, Jimmy Johnson, Barry Switzer, Jim Harbaugh. Obviously fewer examples (as it is much easier to fail than succeed in the NFL) but there are college coaches who can have good NFL runs.

[cincrazy]

Very easy.

Andrew Luck is the consensus no 1 pick. I don't think anyone will disagree with that. That being said, the Colts don't have a GM yet and your owner is already saying who is being taken no 1 without any input from the new GM.

I'm sure whoever the new GM is would take Luck, but there needs to be other input as well. Of course I say this and the Bengals have Mike Brown as their GM.

And I do know the Colts have had more recent success, although that has been on the back of Peyton Manning more than anything. Peyton is the type of QB who makes the entire team and organization that much better (case in point, this season).

Ignore the baggage coming in by Tressel. College football coaches have RARELY made the transition to the pro's. Nick Saban, Bobby Petrino, Steve Spurrier, Dennis Erickson, Butch Davis, Rich Brooks, and Mike Riley all failed in the NFL. I don't think Tressel will play out.

I just don't see what "baggage" you're referring to. Sure, if he were to take another college job, no doubt there'd be baggage. But that has nothing to do with an NFL job whatsoever, and I highly doubt the media or fanbase in that particular city will care if he proves the right pick for the job.

Barry Switzer had baggage at OU that makes Tressel's baggage look miniscule, and he won a SB with the Cowboys.

[George Anderson]

Very easy.

That being said, the Colts don't have a GM yet

.

The Colts hired a GM last week.

[redsfanmia]

Very easy.

Andrew Luck is the consensus no 1 pick. I don't think anyone will disagree with that. That being said, the Colts don't have a GM yet and your owner is already saying who is being taken no 1 without any input from the new GM.

I'm sure whoever the new GM is would take Luck, but there needs to be other input as well. Of course I say this and the Bengals have Mike Brown as their GM.

And I do know the Colts have had more recent success, although that has been on the back of Peyton Manning more than anything. Peyton is the type of QB who makes the entire team and organization that much better (case in point, this season).

Ignore the baggage coming in by Tressel. College football coaches have RARELY made the transition to the pro's. Nick Saban, Bobby Petrino, Steve Spurrier, Dennis Erickson, Butch Davis, Rich Brooks, and Mike Riley all failed in the NFL. I don't think Tressel will play out.

The Colts have a new GM in Ryan Grigson, hired him last week. Manning even if healthy is at the tail end of his career and you can get his replacement at the top of the draft who is one of the top QB prospects since Elway you have to do it no questions asked.

Jimmy Johnson was pretty good at Dallas as well. If a guy can coach he can coach.

[sonny]

Yep. Plenty of NFL guys failed at head coaching too.

[Eric_the_Red]

Tony Dungy said on The Dan Patrick Show he believes Irsay is going to give Tressel the job.

[George Anderson]

Tony Dungy said on The Dan Patrick Show he believes Irsay is going to give Tressel the job.

It kinda seems that way. Not real sure what to think about it.

[Razor Shines]

It kinda seems that way. Not real sure what to think about it.

Feeling exactly the same.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Roy Tucker]

Buy stock in the company that makes blue Colts sweater vests.

[Razor Shines]

Buy stock in the company that makes blue Colts sweater vests.

Gross. Hooded sweatshirts with the sleeves cut off is a better look.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[bucksfan2]

Tony Dungy said on The Dan Patrick Show he believes Irsay is going to give Tressel the job.

How much sway do you think Dungy has now?

[George Anderson]

Gross. Hooded sweatshirts with the sleeves cut off is a better look.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Bite your tongue young man.

Nothing is good about that evil creature. ;)

[redsfanmia]

How much sway do you think Dungy has now?

If Dungy had sway Jim Caldwell would still be coach. I would be a good thing If Dungy did have sway, getting opinions from smart people is a good thing.

[Eric_the_Red]

How much sway do you think Dungy has now?

Zero. Dungy also said the Polians and Caldwell would all be brought back.

Dungy did also say he has had discussions with a few teams about openings. Interesting.

I'd take Dungy back on the Colts any day. Absolutely love the guy. I don't think it is going to happen, but I'd love to see it. Wonder if his former team the Bucs are one of the teams in contact with him?

[bucksfan2]

Zero. Dungy also said the Polians and Caldwell would all be brought back.

Dungy did also say he has had discussions with a few teams about openings. Interesting.

I'd take Dungy back on the Colts any day. Absolutely love the guy. I don't think it is going to happen, but I'd love to see it. Wonder if his former team the Bucs are one of the teams in contact with him?

Gotcha.

Over the past couple of years it almost seemed like Dungy was a consultant for the Colts. It almost seemed as if they listened to his opinion and took it very seriously. Caldwell got his chance because he was Dungy's guy and I think the Colts agreed to that. I also think that in watching the Colts, even with Manning, Caldwell was overmatched as a head coach. I think a clean break from Dungy is a good thing. I think once you quit being paid to do a job you begin to operate with your heart instead of with your mind. Dungy has been the defacto Colts guy who everyone goes to to get an opinion. I can't recall a similar situation in recent years.

[Redsfaithful]

If Tressel coaches the Colts, I'll be rooting for two teams in a sport for the first time ever. I usually think people that do that are gross, but sign me up for the Colts bandwagon.

[bucksfan2]

If Tressel coaches the Colts, I'll be rooting for two teams in a sport for the first time ever. I usually think people that do that are gross, but sign me up for the Colts bandwagon.

:thumbup: I feel the same way.

I think Tressel was a tailor made college head coach. I always thought he would retire within 10 years at OSU and fade off into the sunset. Unfortunately that didn't happen and it looks like he wants a "comeback." I think that if he gets a good ofensive coordinator in there, his even keel manner and decision making will make him a very good head coach.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Changes sadden Manning

http://m.espn.go.com/nfl/story?storyId=7496925&i=FB&w=1bf2w&wjb

[Sea Ray]

Peyton and the fans need to realize that this is an awkward time for reasons out of human control.

The main reason is Peyton's health. Secondly there in flux in coaching/management. It'll just have to play out until that March $28mill bonus deadline.

[UKFlounder]

Chuck Pagano (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7503273/chuck-pagano-hired-indianapolis-colts-coach) is your new head coach

[Eric_the_Red]

Chuck Pagano (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7503273/chuck-pagano-hired-indianapolis-colts-coach) is your new head coach

Wonder if he will take a Mayflower truck from Baltimore to Indy?

From what I've read, I like the signing. Seems to be a bit more vocal than Caldwell and Dungy, and certainly has the defensive chops to help a Colts team in desperate need of some defensive swagger.

I've read Pagano favors a bigger, 3-4 defense, so it makes me wonder about the future of Mathis and Freeney.

[redsfanmia]

I had hoped the Colts would promote from with in and hire Jim Bob Cooter.

[fearofpopvol1]

I like it. I expected someone less exciting. Not that I think Pagano is the best guy, but he's a very formidable choice. Even though I want the Colts to be a better defensive guy, I do wonder if Luck would benefit more from an offensive coach in his early years.

[George Anderson]

I like it. I expected someone less exciting. Not that I think Pagano is the best guy, but he's a very formidable choice. Even though I want the Colts to be a better defensive guy, I do wonder if Luck would benefit more from an offensive coach in his early years.

He will have Manning to show him the ropes the first few years, right?

[WVRed]

I like it. I expected someone less exciting. Not that I think Pagano is the best guy, but he's a very formidable choice. Even though I want the Colts to be a better defensive guy, I do wonder if Luck would benefit more from an offensive coach in his early years.

Manning didn't really need it, and Luck is cut from the same mold IMO.

Tony Dungy and Jim Mora were both known for defense as well. I would let Pagano coach the defense and open up the pocketbooks for a high priced offensive coordinator. Hue Jackson is a possibility.

[Eric_the_Red]

Manning didn't really need it, and Luck is cut from the same mold IMO.

Tony Dungy and Jim Mora were both known for defense as well. I would let Pagano coach the defense and open up the pocketbooks for a high priced offensive coordinator. Hue Jackson is a possibility.

Clyde Christenson is still the Colts offensive coordinator.

[fearofpopvol1]

He will have Manning to show him the ropes the first few years, right?

Yes, as long as Manning is healthy. But after? Luck will still need some development.

[George Anderson]

Yes, as long as Manning is healthy. But after? Luck will still need some development.

We will see.

[fearofpopvol1]

Manning didn't really need it, and Luck is cut from the same mold IMO.

Tony Dungy and Jim Mora were both known for defense as well. I would let Pagano coach the defense and open up the pocketbooks for a high priced offensive coordinator. Hue Jackson is a possibility.

I never liked Dungy's schemes, but I liked him as a leader. Mora was awful IMO.

[fearofpopvol1]

We will see.

If Manning is 100% healthy (a big if now), he will be a Colt next year.

[JaxRed]

Colts would be incredibly dumb to bring Manning back on his current contract. He either needs to take a HUGE pay cut on a new deal, or he needs to be released.

[George Anderson]

Colts would be incredibly dumb to bring Manning back on his current contract. He either needs to take a HUGE pay cut on a new deal, or he needs to be released.

Manning won't be back. The Colts cannot tie that much money into both Manning and Luck when so many other positions need filled. Also I have serious doubt Luck will want to come here and sit while Manning plays.

It will be a very sad day when Manning leaves but unfortunately that is part of the business.


http://blogs.indystar.com/philb/2012/01/25/ok-ok-its-time-to-admit-manning-reality/

[bucksfan2]

Manning won't be back. The Colts cannot tie that much money into both Manning and Luck when so many other positions need filled. Also I have serious doubt Luck will want to come here and sit while Manning plays.

It will be a very sad day when Manning leaves but unfortunately that is part of the business.


http://blogs.indystar.com/philb/2012/01/25/ok-ok-its-time-to-admit-manning-reality/

Manning was drafted in 97 correct? Then after a poor rookie season the Colts have had a decade plus of one of the best QB's in the league. Unfortunately Manning isn't going to excape father time. Manning isn't Joe Montana and Montana eventually left. But if your a Colts fan could you have written a better script? You have a decade plus of excellence then 15 years later get the #1 pick in a draft that is very similar to the original Peyton Manning draft.

[George Anderson]

Manning was drafted in 97 correct? Then after a poor rookie season the Colts have had a decade plus of one of the best QB's in the league. Unfortunately Manning isn't going to excape father time. Manning isn't Joe Montana and Montana eventually left. But if your a Colts fan could you have written a better script? You have a decade plus of excellence then 15 years later get the #1 pick in a draft that is very similar to the original Peyton Manning draft.

As I have said many times, God is no question a Colts fan. :)

[Sea Ray]

If Manning is 100% healthy (a big if now), he will be a Colt next year.

Seeing as they won't know whether he's 100% healthy by his March bonus deadline, I'd say he's gone. It all comes down to that bonus ($$). If he was just due a $12mill salary, it'd be one thing but the way things are set up, I don't see him as coming back in Indy

[Eric_the_Red]

I know I'm probably dreaming but here is what I'd like the Colts to do this off-season, assuming Manning is gone.

- Draft Andrew Luck (duh)
- Re-sign Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon to 2-4 year deals
- Let Robert Mathis and Anthony Gonzalez walk
- Cut Joseph Addai and Gary Brackett
- Sign Matt Forte

That would give the Colts the following depth chart:
QB - Luck
RB - Forte, Donald Brown, Delone Carter
WR - Wayne, Garcon, Austin Collie
TE - Dallas Clark, Jacob Tamme

Use the rest of their draft picks to improve the defense with younger players that fit Pagano's system better (bigger, not as dependent on speed).

I'm still dreaming, but with the savings of Manning and the above moves I mentioned, I wonder if the Colts could afford a Mario Williams too.

[WVRed]

Clyde Christenson is still the Colts offensive coordinator.

For how long? I would think Pagano would be able to bring in his own people. This isn't the Bengals after all. :p

[bucksfan2]

I know I'm probably dreaming but here is what I'd like the Colts to do this off-season, assuming Manning is gone.

- Draft Andrew Luck (duh)
- Re-sign Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon to 2-4 year deals
- Let Robert Mathis and Anthony Gonzalez walk
- Cut Joseph Addai and Gary Brackett
- Sign Matt Forte

That would give the Colts the following depth chart:
QB - Luck
RB - Forte, Donald Brown, Delone Carter
WR - Wayne, Garcon, Austin Collie
TE - Dallas Clark, Jacob Tamme

Use the rest of their draft picks to improve the defense with younger players that fit Pagano's system better (bigger, not as dependent on speed).

I'm still dreaming, but with the savings of Manning and the above moves I mentioned, I wonder if the Colts could afford a Mario Williams too.

I don't think Forte leaves the Bears. I think when they get a new GM in they will pay him.

Its interesting to hear you say resign Wayne. I think I would let him walk and completely rebuild. I think Wayne is a very good WR but I think what made him even better was his rapport with Manning. Wayne would be starting all over with Luck which I think would be wasted money.

With Manning gone, I think the Colts are in a long term rebuilding mode. I think Forte would be fantastic to team with a rookie QB but don't know if he would be willing to bite the bullet for a couple of years.

[Sea Ray]

For how long? I would think Pagano would be able to bring in his own people. This isn't the Bengals after all. :p

Not just the Bengals. Word out of Pittsburgh is that their owner fired the O coordinator without the head coach's blessing:


Although the official company line on the departure of Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians is that he retired, it’s been widely reported that he was actually forced out by Steelers owner Art Rooney II. In an interview on the team’s web site, Rooney declined to get into specifics, but didn’t deny that he’s the reason Arians is out.http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/01/26/art-rooney-ii-on-bruce-arians-it-was-time-for-a-change/

It's not just Cincinnati. The owners do call the shots on things like the hiring of coaches

[Eric_the_Red]

I don't think Forte leaves the Bears. I think when they get a new GM in they will pay him.

Its interesting to hear you say resign Wayne. I think I would let him walk and completely rebuild. I think Wayne is a very good WR but I think what made him even better was his rapport with Manning. Wayne would be starting all over with Luck which I think would be wasted money.

With Manning gone, I think the Colts are in a long term rebuilding mode. I think Forte would be fantastic to team with a rookie QB but don't know if he would be willing to bite the bullet for a couple of years.

Well, I know Forte is extremely upset at the Bears for not giving him a deal before he was injured. I think he'd be a perfect back for a young QB like Luck, since he is a could runner and can catch out of the backfield too. Plus he is still young.

The reason I say to re-sign Wayne is because he is the only receiver on the team I have confidence in. Garcon can be explosive but he is so inconsistent and drops too many passes. That could wreck havoc with a rookie QB's confidence. And I love Collie, but his concussion history scares me too much to rely on him as an every week starter.

Regardless, with Manning being gone, and likely one or both of Wayne/Mathis being gone, the team should have some money left for free agents. In the NFL you can rebuild in a year or two if done the right way.

[fearofpopvol1]

Seeing as they won't know whether he's 100% healthy by his March bonus deadline, I'd say he's gone. It all comes down to that bonus ($$). If he was just due a $12mill salary, it'd be one thing but the way things are set up, I don't see him as coming back in Indy

I wouldn't rule out Manning restructuring with the injury. Although if he's truly as upset with the Colts and Irsay as the media has made it out to seem, then maybe not. It'll be interesting to see what happens over the next 6 weeks.

[fearofpopvol1]

I know I'm probably dreaming but here is what I'd like the Colts to do this off-season, assuming Manning is gone.

- Draft Andrew Luck (duh)
- Re-sign Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon to 2-4 year deals
- Let Robert Mathis and Anthony Gonzalez walk
- Cut Joseph Addai and Gary Brackett
- Sign Matt Forte

That would give the Colts the following depth chart:
QB - Luck
RB - Forte, Donald Brown, Delone Carter
WR - Wayne, Garcon, Austin Collie
TE - Dallas Clark, Jacob Tamme

Use the rest of their draft picks to improve the defense with younger players that fit Pagano's system better (bigger, not as dependent on speed).

I'm still dreaming, but with the savings of Manning and the above moves I mentioned, I wonder if the Colts could afford a Mario Williams too.

I would not re-sign Wayne. He's older and expensive. I'd be open to keeping Garcon though. I would let Gonzo walk. Mathis is a tough call. I think I could see both the upside and the downside to keeping him vs. letting him go. If he would be willing to take a short extension, I would definitely keep him. Who would you be slotting in to replace Mathis if he goes elsewhere?

The problem with Addai is that he can't seem to stay healthy. He is effective when his health is right. All of the injuries though make this a possibility. Cutting Brackett would be okay, but since he's signed, who would replace him?

There is no way the Colts would sign Forte and that's because the Bears are planning to franchise tag Forte if he doesn't sign a long-term deal.

[Eric_the_Red]

I would not re-sign Wayne. He's older and expensive. I'd be open to keeping Garcon though. I would let Gonzo walk. Mathis is a tough call. I think I could see both the upside and the downside to keeping him vs. letting him go. If he would be willing to take a short extension, I would definitely keep him. Who would you be slotting in to replace Mathis if he goes elsewhere?

The problem with Addai is that he can't seem to stay healthy. He is effective when his health is right. All of the injuries though make this a possibility. Cutting Brackett would be okay, but since he's signed, who would replace him?

There is no way the Colts would sign Forte and that's because the Bears are planning to franchise tag Forte if he doesn't sign a long-term deal.

Would you be comfortable with Pierre Garcon as the team's #1 and Collie their #2 WR? I don't think I would. (Plus Garcon is a FA too, and would need to be re-signed.)

I think Mathis may have another year or two in him, but I'd rather get rid of him too early than too late. Use the money for a FA and draft another DE.

Brackett's replacement would be the same guy that replaced him this year and did a great job IMO- Pat Angerer.

Another FA RB I'd look at is Marshawn Lynch, although he is a big step down from Forte obviously. Still think he is better than Addai or Brown at this point.

Other FA WRs to look at (assuming Wayne is too old/expensive) would be Brandon Lloyd or Robert Meachem.

[fearofpopvol1]

Would you be comfortable with Pierre Garcon as the team's #1 and Collie their #2 WR? I don't think I would. (Plus Garcon is a FA too, and would need to be re-signed.)

I think Mathis may have another year or two in him, but I'd rather get rid of him too early than too late. Use the money for a FA and draft another DE.

Brackett's replacement would be the same guy that replaced him this year and did a great job IMO- Pat Angerer.

Another FA RB I'd look at is Marshawn Lynch, although he is a big step down from Forte obviously. Still think he is better than Addai or Brown at this point.

Other FA WRs to look at (assuming Wayne is too old/expensive) would be Brandon Lloyd or Robert Meachem.

I would be fine with Collie and Garcon being the #1 and #2 as the team is rebuilding. Keep in mind, the Colts can draft another receiver as well.

I don't dispute that long-term, the colts should try to find a better RB, but I'm not sure I'd make that a priority right now.

The problem with Mathis is he supposedly wants big bucks and his numbers would indicate he probably should get a good contract. The problem is his age. Not that he's that old, but I wouldn't be doing anything more than 3-4 years.

[George Anderson]

So far I am pretty impressed with Chuck Pagnano. I can't give any type of intelligent reason why but just my gut instinct tells me he is a good hire.

[fearofpopvol1]

So far I am pretty impressed with Chuck Pagnano. I can't give any type of intelligent reason why but just my gut instinct tells me he is a good hire.

I fully agree. I think this was a very good hire for the Colts. Better than I was expecting, even.

[Razor Shines]

So far I am pretty impressed with Chuck Pagnano. I can't give any type of intelligent reason why but just my gut instinct tells me he is a good hire.

I don't understand. I thought a head coach was only allowed to say "well we've reviewed the tape an the effort was there....there were execution mistakes that we have to correct...but the effort was there."


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[George Anderson]

I don't understand. I thought a head coach was only allowed to say "well we've reviewed the tape an the effort was there....there were execution mistakes that we have to correct...but the effort was there."


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

LOL.....all the while keeping the same facial expression. :beerme:

From what I hear Pagano is quite animated on the sidelines. Not that it matters in wins and losses but it has been sometime since we have seen that.

[Eric_the_Red]

Adam Schefter is reporting former Steelers OC Bruce Arians will join the Colts in the same role & Christenson will be offered another position in the organization.

Arians was Mannings' QB coach from 98-00.

[Slyder]

Adam Schefter is reporting former Steelers OC Bruce Arians will join the Colts in the same role & Christenson will be offered another position in the organization.

Arians was Mannings' QB coach from 98-00.

wrong thread

[fearofpopvol1]

Adam Schefter is reporting former Steelers OC Bruce Arians will join the Colts in the same role & Christenson will be offered another position in the organization.

Arians was Mannings' QB coach from 98-00.

Another really good hire for the Colts. I'm impressed with the direction they're heading. I'm still not sure about the GM, but the coaching staff is looking real good.

[George Anderson]

Another really good hire for the Colts. I'm impressed with the direction they're heading. I'm still not sure about the GM, but the coaching staff is looking real good.

My concern is the GM will be nothing but a lap dog to Jim Irsay.

[fearofpopvol1]

My concern is the GM will be nothing but a lap dog to Jim Irsay.

Well, Irsay wasn't that way much when Polian was around. I guess things can change, but I don't think they will. At least I hope not.

[IslandRed]

If he hasn't been a micro-manager all along, I wouldn't be too worried about it just because he's sticking his nose into the Manning/Luck scenario. This isn't basic roster stuff, these are enterprise-level decisions -- $28 million check to write or don't, sending the face of the franchise packing, bringing in a new face of the franchise, etc. -- and Irsay's in charge of the enterprise. Some things are too big to shrug and tell the GM, "whatever you want to do is fine with me."

[fearofpopvol1]

Manning has been cleared to play by 2 doctors...

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7534274/sources-peyton-manning-medically-cleared-resume-nfl-career

So much for the retirement rumors. I still think Irsay will keep him, but will probably try to move the option date back and/or will try to renegotiate his deal and offer him a more incentive laden contract.

[CTA513]

Manning has been cleared to play by 2 doctors...

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7534274/sources-peyton-manning-medically-cleared-resume-nfl-career

So much for the retirement rumors. I still think Irsay will keep him, but will probably try to move the option date back and/or will try to renegotiate his deal and offer him a more incentive laden contract.

This is whats holding him back right now:



What remains in question is the timeline in which Manning's nerve regeneration to his triceps will improve to the point where he is throwing passes in the manner that helped him win four MVP awards during his 13-year career.

[Eric_the_Red]

Manning has been cleared to play by 2 doctors...

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7534274/sources-peyton-manning-medically-cleared-resume-nfl-career

So much for the retirement rumors. I still think Irsay will keep him, but will probably try to move the option date back and/or will try to renegotiate his deal and offer him a more incentive laden contract.

This isn't news. Manning was cleared to resume football activities back in November. His neck is fine, the problem is the nerves. The nerves are sapping his arm strength.

Nice job, ESPN, for breaking this "exclusive" news.

[fearofpopvol1]

This isn't news. Manning was cleared to resume football activities back in November. His neck is fine, the problem is the nerves. The nerves are sapping his arm strength.

Nice job, ESPN, for breaking this "exclusive" news.

I don't remember the doctors previously being on the record as clearing him, but maybe I just missed that.

[IslandRed]

I thought he had been cleared for "football activities" (throwing, lifting weights etc.) back then, but not to put on a helmet and get hit, which is what "cleared to play" means.

I also saw where Irsay said, "we haven't cleared him to play..."

[Eric_the_Red]

It is all PR by Manning and Irsay to "win" public perception. Sure, Manning could take the field, but without his arm strength he would be a liability. The way it was worded came across like doctors were saying he was completely healed, which is not the case. This would be like saying I could take the field- no team would want that. ;)

It is a shame that Manning and Irsay can't deal with this privately and both feel the need to "win" something that shouldn't be a battle but a partnership. I've always loved Manning but he is losing some of my respect in the way he is handling this situation. I'm not sure what he expects Irsay to do at this point.

[bucksfan2]

It is all PR by Manning and Irsay to "win" public perception. Sure, Manning could take the field, but without his arm strength he would be a liability. The way it was worded came across like doctors were saying he was completely healed, which is not the case. This would be like saying I could take the field- no team would want that. ;)

It is a shame that Manning and Irsay can't deal with this privately and both feel the need to "win" something that shouldn't be a battle but a partnership. I've always loved Manning but he is losing some of my respect in the way he is handling this situation. I'm not sure what he expects Irsay to do at this point.

They sound like the dysfunctional family that used to reside in Cincinnati. Both need to shut up and keep quiet for a while. I don't know who is advising Manning but he is losing respect with his handling of this situation.

[KoryMac5]

Manning is leaking this information because he wants to play. Obviously he would like to play in Indy but if he can't play in Indy he wants the other teams out there to know he can still bring it. If the Colts have a problem with that cut the guy loose instead of letting him turn and toss in the wind.

[Razor Shines]

I don't understand why Manning or Irsay would be losing respect here. What's the big deal. I'm fine with both of them. Whether this is all just PR or not. Nothing major has been done by either side.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Razor Shines]

Dp

[George Anderson]

I don't understand why Manning or Irsay would be losing respect here. What's the big deal. I'm fine with both of them. Whether this is all just PR or not. Nothing major has been done by either side.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I agree, what exactly has Manning said that garners disrespect?

Keep in mind what is going on in Indy this week is the result of #18 as much as anyone. Had Ryan Leaf been picked instead of him the Colts would be in LA and the SB would be somewhere else. My point is even if Manning did say something we dislike I think all Colts fans need to give him a pass.

[Eric_the_Red]

I agree, what exactly has Manning said that garners disrespect?

Not disrespect, just less respect. IMO, he is acting like a spoiled child not used to not getting his way. And Irsay is just as bad, responding to all of Manning's blatant PR grabs.

Neither are taking the high road in this situation, and it seems Manning is the one initiating things. In Reds lingo, Manning is the Phillips shin-guard tap and Irsay is the Molena shove.

The Colts drafting Luck just makes sense. Manning cannot throw a football full strength yet, something of a requirement at his position. Even at full strength, Manning turns 36 next month. There have only been 3 QBs to win a Super Bowl at age 36 or later (John Elway, Jim Plunkett and Johnny Unitas- who was injured during that Super Bowl). Looking at the history of successful older QBs you can assume that, even completely healthy, Manning only has 3 years or so left, and the quality of his play in those seasons would most likely gradually decline.

Simply put, I don't think the Colts win a Super Bowl with Manning, as sad as that realization is.

[George Anderson]

Not disrespect, just less respect. IMO, he is acting like a spoiled child not used to not getting his way. .

I kinda understand this but I look at it this way. Colts fans owe Manning the world. If not for him we likely have no franchise, so if he kinda spouts off a little bit that rubs us the wrong way so be it. IMO he has earned the right to spout off within reason.

Having said all that the Colts need to cut Manning, build a statue for him, put him on the Ring of Honor, name a street after him, give him a free meals for a lifetime at St. Elmo's and then draft Andrew Luck.

[mth123]

Not disrespect, just less respect. IMO, he is acting like a spoiled child not used to not getting his way. And Irsay is just as bad, responding to all of Manning's blatant PR grabs.

Neither are taking the high road in this situation, and it seems Manning is the one initiating things. In Reds lingo, Manning is the Phillips shin-guard tap and Irsay is the Molena shove.

The Colts drafting Luck just makes sense. Manning cannot throw a football full strength yet, something of a requirement at his position. Even at full strength, Manning turns 36 next month. There have only been 3 QBs to win a Super Bowl at age 36 or later (John Elway, Jim Plunkett and Johnny Unitas- who was injured during that Super Bowl). Looking at the history of successful older QBs you can assume that, even completely healthy, Manning only has 3 years or so left, and the quality of his play in those seasons would most likely gradually decline.

Simply put, I don't think the Colts win a Super Bowl with Manning, as sad as that realization is.

What exactly has he said that makes him a spoiled child?

[Eric_the_Red]

I kinda understand this but I look at it this way. Colts fans owe Manning the world. If not for him we likely have no franchise, so if he kinda spouts off a little bit that rubs us the wrong way so be it. IMO he has earned the right to spout off within reason.

Having said all that the Colts need to cut Manning, build a statue for him, put him on the Ring of Honor, name a street after him, give him a free meals for a lifetime at St. Elmo's and then draft Andrew Luck.

I agree 100% with your second point, but I don't think adults ever have the right to act entitled, even if your past has warranted some additional respect.

[Eric_the_Red]

What exactly has he said that makes him a spoiled child?

His whining about Indy "not being a good place to heal", all his friends being fired, releasing press releases about being "healthy" in an effort to force the Colts hand and/or gain public sympathy, etc. Peyton- football is a business and people get fired, especially after seasons like 2011. Put your big boy undies on, get healthy and pick whatever team you want to play for after the Colts release you.

[redsfanmia]

His whining about Indy "not being a good place to heal", all his friends being fired, releasing press releases about being "healthy" in an effort to force the Colts hand and/or gain public sympathy, etc. Peyton- football is a business and people get fired, especially after seasons like 2011. Put your big boy undies on, get healthy and pick whatever team you want to play for after the Colts release you.

I love Manning and what he has done for the Colts but its time to move on. I don't know why they are doing the song and dance act when its obvious that he will be released. The Colts should respect him by letting him move on if that is what he wants to do.

[Eric_the_Red]

I love Manning and what he has done for the Colts but its time to move on. I don't know why they are doing the song and dance act when its obvious that he will be released. The Colts should respect him by letting him move on if that is what he wants to do.

I think Irsay is honestly waiting until the last possible minute to see if Manning could play next year. I still think he will draft Luck, but if Manning shows he is healthy before the deadline, I believe Irsay will want to keep both.

[IslandRed]

The Colts drafting Luck just makes sense. Manning cannot throw a football full strength yet, something of a requirement at his position. Even at full strength, Manning turns 36 next month. There have only been 3 QBs to win a Super Bowl at age 36 or later (John Elway, Jim Plunkett and Johnny Unitas- who was injured during that Super Bowl). Looking at the history of successful older QBs you can assume that, even completely healthy, Manning only has 3 years or so left, and the quality of his play in those seasons would most likely gradually decline.

Simply put, I don't think the Colts win a Super Bowl with Manning, as sad as that realization is.

Everything you said makes perfect sense. But fans aren't always coldly logical and Irsay knows many Colts fans will react negatively to releasing Manning. His defense will be that he really had no choice, and he's determined to control the narrative in that regard. But from Manning's perspective, if the official team story is going to be "we had to move on, he's done," he has no reason to play along with that when he doesn't think he's done. I'm sure his attitude is, "you're making a business decision, that's your right, but don't you try to dodge it by claiming my career's over."

Pride and PR. In the end, the Colts will get Luck, Manning will play elsewhere, no harm done, life goes on.

[Sea Ray]

No matter what happens, he's not worth $28mill to any team so we have to start with the assumption that his contract with the Colts will be ripped up. At that point, Peyton holds the cards. Does he want to come back to Indy along with A Luck or does he want to go elsewhere? ESPN has reported that he'd play next year on an incentive laden contract. Well I'm sure the Colts would take him back on that sort of deal. I don't see that this is Irsay's call at all.

[fearofpopvol1]

No matter what happens, he's not worth $28mill to any team so we have to start with the assumption that his contract with the Colts will be ripped up. At that point, Peyton holds the cards. Does he want to come back to Indy along with A Luck or does he want to go elsewhere? ESPN has reported that he'd play next year on an incentive laden contract. Well I'm sure the Colts would take him back on that sort of deal. I don't see that this is Irsay's call at all.

And this is what irks me. I believe most Colts fans and Irsay would love for Peyton to come back and take less. His agent during Super Bowl week essentially said the Colts will either honor their contract or he'll walk, no exceptions. Maybe that was posturing, I don't know. And maybe the Luck situation is irking Manning. Still, I bet the Colts would still be willing to give Peyton half of his original contract if he moved the date up and proved to be healthy. If he's healthy, I want Peyton back with Luck on the sideline for at least a year or two.

[redsfanmia]

And this is what irks me. I believe most Colts fans and Irsay would love for Peyton to come back and take less. His agent during Super Bowl week essentially said the Colts will either honor their contract or he'll walk, no exceptions. Maybe that was posturing, I don't know. And maybe the Luck situation is irking Manning. Still, I bet the Colts would still be willing to give Peyton half of his original contract if he moved the date up and proved to be healthy. If he's healthy, I want Peyton back with Luck on the sideline for at least a year or two.

I think the Colts and Luck will be better served by letting him play from day 1, they take lumps and grow just like Peyton did.

[blumj]

It doesn't make sense for him to re-sign with the Colts, for the same reason he might have to sign an incentive-laden contract. What if he has to start the season on the PUP list, who starts at QB for the Colts until he can come off it?

[IslandRed]

No matter what happens, he's not worth $28mill to any team so we have to start with the assumption that his contract with the Colts will be ripped up.

True enough.


At that point, Peyton holds the cards. Does he want to come back to Indy along with A Luck or does he want to go elsewhere? ESPN has reported that he'd play next year on an incentive laden contract. Well I'm sure the Colts would take him back on that sort of deal. I don't see that this is Irsay's call at all.

Irsay gets 100% of the call on the Colts' side. If he wants to get on with the Luck era, the Colts won't offer Manning a new contract on any terms. I'm guessing that's what Irsay wants to do, believing it best for the long term, but he knows it will be unpopular, thus the attempt to mitigate the slings and arrows by downplaying any possibility Manning could ever be his old self again. He may well be right about all of it, by the way, but at the moment it's clear Peyton doesn't agree with him, thus the back-and-forth.

[George Anderson]

I think the Colts and Luck will be better served by letting him play from day 1, they take lumps and grow just like Peyton did.

I agree and regardless of what Luck tells the press, he is a competitor and wants to play now. Its a nice fantasy to imagine Manning restructuring his contract and mentoring Luck but it is nothing more than a fantasy. Manning's priority is getting one more chance at another ring and not mentoring someone to one day take his job. Luck's priority is to get on the field asap and prove his worth as a #1 pick. The fantasy thing just doesn't jive.

[fearofpopvol1]

The saga continues...

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7579168/indianapolis-colts-peyton-manning-reportedly-had-4th-neck-procedure-11

[redsfanmia]

Irsay did the smart thing by putting the ball in team Manning's court. I still think they should just agree to a divorce and let Peyton move on.

[Sea Ray]

Irsay did the smart thing by putting the ball in team Manning's court. I still think they should just agree to a divorce and let Peyton move on.

I think he was stating what I was a few days ago. That is that Peyton's going to be released so it's his call where he goes

[redsfanmia]

I think he was stating what I was a few days ago. That is that Peyton's going to be released so it's his call where he goes

There have been multiple reports, the last I heard was from the Colts beat writer, he said he thinks its 50/50 that Peyton is back.

[Sea Ray]

There have been multiple reports, the last I heard was from the Colts beat writer, he said he thinks its 50/50 that Peyton is back.

50/50 tells us nothing. My own judgement tells me that there's no way he'll be back under his current contract. If they rip up his current contract then he becomes a free agent and he calls the shots. That's my point.

Does anyone think he'll get $28mill from Irsay in 3 weeks?

[redsfanmia]

50/50 tells us nothing. My own judgement tells me that there's no way he'll be back under his current contract. If they rip up his current contract then he becomes a free agent and he calls the shots. That's my point.

Does anyone think he'll get $28mill from Irsay in 3 weeks?

He is gone and personally I hope he retires, the Colts are a mess right now and will be for a few years.

[Razor Shines]

He is gone and personally I hope he retires, the Colts are a mess right now and will be for a few years.

If he can play I hope he plays. I prefer the Colts but I'd be happy to see him play somewhere else.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[fearofpopvol1]

3/8 is coming soon! What do you think will happen?

Mathis received the franchise tag today and it looks like will be resigned. I am personally good with that. Mathis just turned 31, but the Colts signed him to 4 years, which I thought was smart. I would've wanted 3 years, but I can handle 4. It's a pretty wealthy contract, but I think he'll be worth the value.

[gilpdawg]

3/8 is coming soon! What do you think will happen?

Mathis received the franchise tag today and it looks like will be resigned. I am personally good with that. Mathis just turned 31, but the Colts signed him to 4 years, which I thought was smart. I would've wanted 3 years, but I can handle 4. It's a pretty wealthy contract, but I think he'll be worth the value.
That's very good news. They have a lot of holes, but those holes won't be as hard to fill adequately with Freeney and Mathis wreaking havoc.

[redsfanmia]

3/8 is coming soon! What do you think will happen?

Mathis received the franchise tag today and it looks like will be resigned. I am personally good with that. Mathis just turned 31, but the Colts signed him to 4 years, which I thought was smart. I would've wanted 3 years, but I can handle 4. It's a pretty wealthy contract, but I think he'll be worth the value.

Manning will be released and the Colts start a massive rebuild.

[Stray]

Colts are going to release him

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7653897/sources-indianapolis-colts-part-peyton-manning-wednesday

[Razor Shines]

My Facebook is blowing up with people jumping off the Colts bandwagon. Others are saying good riddance. Almost like you have to choose. I don't get it. I still love the Colts and will root for Peyton when he's not playing the Colts.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[KoryMac5]

Not a Colt's fan but Peyton Manning is the type of QB I wish Palmer could have been for the Bengals. I wish him nothing but the best going forward and looking forward to seeing him play some more. Tough move for all parties involved but the right move none the less.

[redsfanmia]

I think this is best for both parties, Manning can go somewhere and win and the Colts can rebuild with Andrew Luck. Got a feeling Colts tickets are again going to be in abundance and at a low cost for the next few years.

[fearofpopvol1]

I understand the move, but it's sad. It just doesn't feel right. I think I understand the way Green Bay fans must have felt after Favre left. Let's just hope that Andrew Luck turns out to be the next Aaron Rodgers.

[NJReds]

This reminds me of when the 49ers transitioned from Montana to Young. The franchise was incredibly fortunate to have Young waiting in the wings, even though the fans loved Joe much more than Young. Montana had recovered once from back surgery, and then returned from an elbow surgery when he was traded. Big difference was that there was no salary cap, yet, and the 49ers could carry both QBs.

Montana continued his career in KC, while Young won another Super Bowl with the Niners.

Indy fans are fortunate that they had Manning, and as soon as he leaves, another potential franchise QB. That doesn't happen very often.

[BRM]

My Facebook is blowing up with people jumping off the Colts bandwagon. Others are saying good riddance. Almost like you have to choose. I don't get it. I still love the Colts and will root for Peyton when he's not playing the Colts.


Agreed. The Colts will always be my team and I will definitely root for Peyton wherever he goes.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Sad day for my son. He has always loved Peyton Manning. As soon as we move to Indy, injury and released. He's not a happy camper. Good luck to one of the NFL's all-time great QB's. Wish he could have retired wearing the horseshoe.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Peyton Manning - Pure Class

[redsfanmia]

That was an emotional presser for me, I shed a few tears. Peyton not only put the Colts on the map but he also saved the franchise in Indianapolis. Without Peyton the Colts are in L.A. or San Jose or someplace else. Having Peyton allowed Indianapolis to build a new stadium and have this past years super bowl, not really sure if one player meant more to a franchise than Peyton did the Colts.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Looks like the Colts just released Dallas Clark, Joseph Addai, Melvin Bullitt, and Gary Brackett. Said to be shopping Freeney. Burn it to the groun, I guess. Looks like we'll be watching some bad football for a while in Indy. Looks like Luck will be surrounded by mediocrity for a while. Probably will get a good view looking up at the roof from his back in Lucas Oil Stadium.

[redsfanmia]

It hurts but all the guys cut today other than Brackett are in serious decline and needed to go.

[RollyInRaleigh]

Kinda depressing.

[redsfanmia]

Kinda depressing.

I know you are new to the area but we have really been spoiled here, reality is now setting in. Atleast the Reds should be really good.

[Ohayou]

I don't always get rid of players, but when I do I get rid of everyone.

[Razor Shines]

I don't have a problem with any of that. None of those guys will have much to do with Luck being on his back a lot or not.

As someone else said, those guys were all declining. It would be a good idea to ship freeney for some picks.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Slyder]

Washington gave up 3 firsts and a second round pick to get #2. Would you have been enticed at all by that if you were Indy's front office for #1 or you can't pass on Andrew Luck while you have a shot at him?

[George Anderson]

Washington gave up 3 firsts and a second round pick to get #2. Would you have been enticed at all by that if you were Indy's front office for #1 or you can't pass on Andrew Luck while you have a shot at him?

You do not pass on Luck.

[RollyInRaleigh]

You do not pass on Luck.

:beerme: You pass with Luck! ;)

[RollyInRaleigh]

I know you are new to the area but we have really been spoiled here, reality is now setting in. Atleast the Reds should be really good.

Yeah, we had high hopes after watching the Panthers for the last few years. I'm willing to wait if they put it together the right way.

[Ownagedood]

Don't freak out about the changes. The Colts are going to be really good in just a few years. Next year there will be a lot of growing pains but its worth it! Luck is going to be a rookie and will struggle from time to time making the jump, but is still going to be good. Also the change to a 3-4 defense is going to take a little practice and getting used to. But in the long run, all these changes needed to be done and will make us a good team. The releasings of those players yesterday is a little painful to take in, but it will give us loads of money to go out and sign some guys next off season. I believe we are changing the whole team in a better way.. The defense is going to be bigger and tougher.. We are also going to have a hard nosed run game as well. With Andrew Luck at the helm, once we get all the pieces in place, we are going to be a very good team.

[redsfanmia]

Don't freak out about the changes. The Colts are going to be really good in just a few years. Next year there will be a lot of growing pains but its worth it! Luck is going to be a rookie and will struggle from time to time making the jump, but is still going to be good. Also the change to a 3-4 defense is going to take a little practice and getting used to. But in the long run, all these changes needed to be done and will make us a good team. The releasings of those players yesterday is a little painful to take in, but it will give us loads of money to go out and sign some guys next off season. I believe we are changing the whole team in a better way.. The defense is going to be bigger and tougher.. We are also going to have a hard nosed run game as well. With Andrew Luck at the helm, once we get all the pieces in place, we are going to be a very good team.

I am really looking forward to the next season, its going to be different for sure but it's was kind of boring knowing the Colts were going to win 12+ games every year. I look forward to 1:00 pm Sunday games too. Going to be fun watching Luck grow and improve.

[Assembly Hall]

That was an emotional presser for me, I shed a few tears. Peyton not only put the Colts on the map but he also saved the franchise in Indianapolis. Without Peyton the Colts are in L.A. or San Jose or someplace else. Having Peyton allowed Indianapolis to build a new stadium and have this past years super bowl, not really sure if one player meant more to a franchise than Peyton did the Colts.

I couldnt have said it better.