It’s official – quarterback Peyton Manning is off the roster of the Indianapolis Colts.
Manning and Colts owner Jim Irsay confirmed the story in a news conference they held Wednesday morning, March 7, 2012.
Both men cited circumstances that were “too difficult to overcome” in coming to the decision to end Manning’s career with the colts.
Irsay thanked Manning for having the best interest of the team at heart in arriving at the decision to leave the team.
“Peyton has been completely unselfish,” Irsay said. “It’s never been about money, it’s never been about those type of things.”
“I sure have loved playing football for the Indianapolis Colts,” Manning said.
Manning said he has not yet thought about where he’d like to play next.
“I don’t want to retire,” said Manning. “Nobody love playing quarterback more than I do.”
Irsay and Manning each had emotional moments during the news conference. Both also agreed that the decision came over a long period of time during repeated talks and consideration of various possible scenarios.
“There will be no other Peyton Manning,” said Irsay, “He’s always part of the horseshoe.”
