Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning could be forced to retire after the season, pending the results of a neck examine scheduled for March. Manning, 37, is mandated by his contract to undergo the examination, ESPN reports.
Manning, who missed the entire 2011 season after undoing multiple neck surgeries, hasn't shown any signs of having issues with his neck. Nonetheless, the future Hall of Famer could face retirement - or even the Broncos releasing him - if a medical exam slated for March reveals any issues with his neck.
Per ESPN:
"Peyton Manning's future beyond this season will be determined by the results of an offseason exam on his surgically repaired neck, sources familiar with the star quarterback's mindset told ESPN Senior NFL Insider Chris Mortensen. ...
"If the exam reveals that his neck is stable, Manning plans to return to the Broncos in 2014, regardless of how Denver fares this postseason, according to sources.
"But if there is an increased risk of injury, Manning will be forced to decide whether to retire, sources said."
One positive sign regarding Manning's health is his improved arm strength. Questions persisted last season about Manning's arm strength, which stemmed from nerve issues. This season, however, Manning appears to have a better touch on his deep ball.
He also hasn't shown any fatigue after passing for 5,477 yards and 55 touchdowns, both career-bests and single-season records.
Despite his record-breaking season, the 13-time Pro Bowler admitted he knows retirement is approaching.
"The light is at the end of the tunnel for me, no question," Manning said last week, via ESPN.
Denver hosts the New England Patriots on Sunday in the AFC Conference Championship game. If the Broncos advance, Manning would make his third appearance at a Super Bowl for a chance to win a second ring.
