Archie Manning discusses Peyton’s comeback after neck surgery

In an interview on ESPN Radio’s The Ian O’Connor Show, Archie Manning talked about the amazing return of his son, Peyton Manning, following the neck surgery he received in 2011.

Archie was concerned that Peyton wouldn’t play at all and wondered if his son had it in him to start all over after finding out that the Indianapolis Colts wouldn’t re-sign him to a new contract.

"“Certainly there was a time there we were concerned if he would play at all,” Archie said. “And I think the big thing, we’re all elated and happy for Peyton because he wanted to play some more and the doctors cleared him.“But I guess what I didn’t know about is having to leave Indianapolis and kind of that comfort and all those years and starting over again. To me, that was kind of the hard part, and also dealing, as he’s stated, he’s not as strong. His arm’s not as strong [after] all the surgeries, and getting older. So we didn’t really know what to expect.”"

Dealing with multiple injuries himself, Archie was worried about Peyton’s health. Even after doctors cleared Peyton, Archie wondered “how he could play at [quarterback].”

"“…I think Peyton feels blessed and fortunate. … I don’t think he takes any practice or any game or any time for granted. He loves to play the game, and he feels really grateful that he’s getting to play some more.”"