The Indianapolis Colts have added Peyton Manning the star Quarterback to their ranks, by way of a new long term contract that begins ahead of the new 2011 NFL season. As the only ever player to have won the league’s MVP award, Manning will reportedly earn an estimated $90 million over the next five years under the new contract.
It had become widely expected already that the 35 year old superstar would indeed become the highest paid player in the sport, surpassing Tom Brady’s enormous deal signed with the Patriots last September. However, it has been suggested that Manning was keen to see some of the money put up used for additional signings and therefore agreed on a deal which roughly matches that of Brady, at around $18 million per year.
Before the contract had even been signed, the Colts had placed a franchise tag on the player so as to reduce the chances of him hitting the free-agency market.
However, there are still a number of concerns regarding Manning’s overall fitness levels, as he is expected not to report to training camp on schedule following surgery regarding a neck injury. The Colts are to list Manning on the physically unable to perform list, which means he will remain absent until he is removed.
Manning has so far not missed a single game in his NFL career of 13 years, which adds up to a staggering 227 starts.
