The good news for Colts fans? According to Chris Mortensen of ESPN, a new procedure/surgery on quarterback Peyton Manning’s neck has not been performed nor is plan.
The bad news? Here are the key words from Mort: “As of now.”
Mort says that Manning is “getting multiple opinions” and “still waiting for answers on slow progress.”
Mort also offered up an ominous but vague assessment of Manning’s availability for Week One against the Texans. Pointing out that the Colts didn’t believe Manning would be ready for the opener upon signing quarterback Kerry Collins, Mort now says that “[b]arring [a] miracle, that’s more evident.”
As to Manning’s status and the slow recovery following the May procedure, Mortensen writes that "[o]ne possibility is scar tissue trapping inflammation/nerves,” but that there is “no consensus” among the doctors who are on the case.
Bottom line? It’s looking more and more like Manning won’t play in Week One. The bigger question at this point is whether he’ll be available come Week Two, and beyond.