When Peyton Manning signed his five-year, $90 million contract extension July 31, Indianapolis Colts coaches, officials and owner Jim Irsay believed the four-time NFL MVP would be recovered from May neck surgery and start in the Sept. 11 season opener against the AFC South rival Houston Texans.
What's next for Manning?
Dr. Wellington K. Hsu, an expert in operative treatment of cervical and lumbar degenerative disorders, talked to NFL.com about what Peyton Manning's neck surgery means. **More ...**
Now, there is doubt that the quarterback will play again this season.
Manning underwent single anterior fusion on his neck Thursday, and there isn't a timetable for his return.
Former NFL linebacker Coy Wire said he had a similar procedure in 2007 after injuring his neck on a tackle when he played with the Buffalo Bills. Wire, who didn't speak to Manning's injury because he doesn't know specifics, said he had to wear a neck brace for six weeks and was advised not to walk for a month. He was cleared for contact six months later but could rehabilitate and condition before then.
Wire played for the Atlanta Falcons for three seasons after surgery before recently being cut. One of the players who earned a roster spot at Wire's expense was cornerback Kelvin Hayden, a former Manning teammate who had neck surgery after being hurt late last season.
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