I love sports. This statement should not come as a shock, but rather what is appalling is the turn of events coming out of Indiana. After 14 (14!) seasons, Peyton Manning is no longer a member of the Indianapolis Colts. Here are a few highlights from the ESPN News Service coverage of the press conference with Jim Irsay and Peyton Manning, which made this announcement official:
Both men paused frequently to fight tears, with their voices shaking, when they appeared together at a news conference at the Colts' team complex to announce the end of Manning's 14-year tenure in Indianapolis.
The team had a deadline of Thursday to pay Manning a $28 million bonus and exercise the four remaining years on the five-year, $90 million contract he signed before last season, or release him outright.
"This is difficult because of the things Peyton has done for our city, our state and our franchise," Irsay said. "There will be no other Peyton Manning." Irsay said Manning's No. 18 "will never be worn again by a Colt on the field."
"We all know that nothing lasts forever," Manning said. "Times change, circumstances change, and that's the reality of playing in the NFL."
A couple things you should know about me. I am not a Colts fan, but I have always respected Peyton Manning and sometimes even the organization. You see I grew up with the story of how Jim Irsay's father, Robert moved the Colts to Indianapolis in the middle of the night; which I just thought was the craziest thing. Then a couple years ago I read a wonderful Sports Illustrated article on Jim Irsay, and thought maybe this guy isn't so bad. Well now I am not sure what to think about this turn of events. Peyton Manning may prove to be the most coveted free agent acquisition in the history of the NFL. Yet both men claim this decision was not about money. Shenanigans! Of course it was about money; if not what was it? This just makes me very, very sad. I watch sports for the love of the game, and all those other cliches. I really struggle to remember that each sport is first and foremost a very lucrative business, and that becomes the basis for decision making by executives.
On this day, I am very sad for the Peyton Manning and the city of Indianapolis. He is a stand-up guy who has done wonderful things for that city and the Colts franchise. Finally, I never thought I would say it, but Jim Irsay may have made a bigger fool of himself than his father! I mean who lets Peyton Manning go? The Colts went 2-14 without him last season! As my future mother-in-law said, Peyton Manning is the Indianapolis Colts.
For two football guys having to say goodbye on camera, it was pretty heartwarming or they were crying just because CHANGE IS HARD no matter whether it was money induced or not. It will be interesting to see where Peyton ends up. Just hoping he doesn't end up exiting as poorly as Favre.
ReplyDeleteMost every one has trouble with some year of age they will get to. Looks like 30 is going to be a spectacular year with each year gracing you with more and more blessings. There will be hard times, always, but that keeps us grateful and humble! Love you so!
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