Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, right, listens as quarterback Peyton Manning speaks during a news conference in Indianapolis. During the press conference, it was announced that the Colts would cut ties with Manning after 14 seasons.
AP
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Manning underwent four surgeries for a neck injury and missed the entire 2011 season. The Colts, who own the first overall pick in next month’s draft, are expected to select Andrew Luck as his replacement.
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Manning owns the Colts’ franchise record for wins, completions, yards and touchdowns. Colts owner Jim Irsay said during the press conference that “We’re here very much as well to honor all of the incredible memories and incredible things that Peyton has done.”
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Manning will enter free agency for the first time in his 14-year career. The Colts drafted Manning in 1998 and he has since led them to two Super Bowls, winning one.
Anthony J. Causi
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“I’ve been a Colt for almost my entire adult life, but as we all know in life, and is sports, nothing lasts forever,” Manning said. “I sure have loved playing football for the Indianapolis Colts. It truly has been an honor to play in Indianapolis. I do love it here I love the fans, I will leave the Colts with nothing but good thoughts and gratitude. I truly have enjoyed being your quarterback.”
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Manning called the decision reached by him and Irsay “not easy” and was grateful to Irsay, Indianapolis and its fans.
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Manning quelled any rumors about his potential retirement by saying, “I don’t want to retire,” Manning said. “Nobody loves their job more than I do, nobody loves playing quarterback more than I do.”
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The Jets, as well as the Dolphins, Redskins, Seahawks, Chiefs and Cardinals are rumored as potential landing spots for the biggest free agent on the market.
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If Manning joins the Jets, he will share a city with his younger brother, and two-time Super Bowl winner, Eli.
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Manning shows off the Lombardi Trophy and the keys to his new car after being named Super Bowl MVP following the Colts’ 29-17 win over the Bears in Super Bowl XLI.
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Among others, Manning set the then-record for touchdown passes in a single season with 49 TDs.
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Manning is also the only player to be named the leagues most valuable player four times.
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Could both Eli and Peyton call New York City home? After his release, Peyton will be a target for the Jets.
Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
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Manning is pictured on the Wheaties cereal box on Nov. 16, 2004.
General Mills
