For the second time in as many years, Peyton Manning has undergone surgery on his neck.
Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star reports that Manning underwent a “minimally invasive” procedure Monday to fix a disc-related issue. He underwent surgery last March to relieve pain from a pinched nerve. It’s believed Manning has been working with teammates this offseason until this problem popped up.
Manning spent Monday evening in an Indianapolis hospital before returning to his local home Tuesday.
“There is plenty of time for recovery,’’ Manning told Chappell, noting that after his last surgery he was working out within a week and lifting weights within two weeks.
Manning is downplaying the severity of the issue and sounded optimistic about being ready for team activities, when they resume. Still, Manning has now undergone two surgeries in 15 months in the same area after a remarkably healthy career. He’s 35 years old and at a point in his career when it’s fair to wonder if his peak is behind him.
The surgery comes at a difficult time for Manning; he’s expected to work out a long-term contract with the Colts after the lockout that would make him the league’s highest paid player.
UPDATE: On a Manning-related note, Mike Freeman of CBSSports.com joined PFT Live Tuesday to talk about Manning’s media silence this offseason.
