Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning attended his first practice on Tuesday. He said that although he can’t guarantee it, he hopes to be starting on September 7 when his team opens versus the Chicago Bears.
Manning said, “I’ve not really had a whole lot to say, to tell you the truth,” The QB observed, “As to when I’ll be back on the practice field, that’s still to be determined. Obviously, the sooner, the better for me. My goal is to be back for the first game.”
Manning had kept out of the spotlight after he had an infected bursa sac removed from his left knee on July 14. He stayed away from camp in an effort to reduce the risk of getting another infection that could delay his return even longer.
At camp, the franchise quarterback threw a few passes but mostly talked with head coach Tony Dungy and Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. Manning had his number 18 jersey on but did not wear a helmet or pads. His knee had a wrap around it.
There’s been a lot of speculation amongst sports reporters and fans regarding the severity of Manning’s condition. This was partly due to the silence surrounding the QB’s situation and that he had not been seen at all. This occurred despite the fact that team officials did report that the star’s rehab was right on schedule.
Manning said, “This, maybe, will stop some of the whining going on. I just didn’t want to get into these daily progress reports. I’ve done nothing but rehab, I guess we’re sort of in the rumor mill now. I don’t wear a knee brace, I wore this (wrap) today, really for the first time.”
There’s no guarantee from Dungy that the quarterback will be ready to play for the opener. The head coach knows that the season is comprised of 16 games, and it’s more important to have Manning healthy and ready to go for the majority of the season rather than having him risk anything by appearing in the September 7 contest.