By DAVID LEBLANC
Staff Writer
For many months, sports fans have been wondering one crucial question, what will happen to Peyton Manning? Although there is no clear cut answer to this much more complex problem, we as fans begin to see pieces of the puzzle falling together.
Manning who is now 35, has been playing since 1998 with only one team, the Indianapolis Colts. But the million dollar question seems to be, what will happen to this 11-time pro bowler now that he has reached an age of isolation and the Colts have the number one pick.
Will he end up finishing out his career with a team like the Arizona Cardinals or possible the Washington Redskins? Or will he remain a Colt?
On Wednesday the 8th while entertaining reporters, Manning has shown that he is still not fully ready. Manning was unable to throw to his left. Seeing how the colts don’t have a very superior running game, the quarterback of that team must be able to throw wherever he needs to. This is not a good sign.
Reporters also discovered that after talking with some of his teammates, “That he doesn’t really have the velocity on the ball yet.” With this said, what is to come of this once elite quarterback.
One of the teams that were talked about as an option for Peyton was the Arizona Cardinals, who coincidentally just hired Peyton’s long time quarterback coach. Is this a sign of where he might end up? See the main concern for teams who could possibly get Peyton is his longevity.
Being that he’s 35 shows he is only able to produce for a maximum of 3-4 more years. If a team’s GM is willing to make a huge trade for the veteran QB, than he must have the ability to produce a super bowl appearance within that time period.
Not too many teams are built like that. Possible teams may include the Cardinals, the Redskins, the Dolphins or the Raiders. Another problem with Manning being on the move is that there are only limited number of teams who do not already have their “franchise” quarterback.
Another possible alternative is Manning could retire. Although there have been no indications of this, it should not be completely ruled out. There is a possibility that he may not want to play for any other team. However, it is severely unlikely. Yet with all the changes that have been happening in Indianapolis and around the league, anything is possible in the NFL.
No matter the outcome, and no matter where the veteran may end up, we must all remember that he was one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. He will be one of the highest held quarterbacks for many more years to come.
