Detailed Account of Peyton Manning’s Neck Surgeries and Rehab

Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) throws a pass against the Indianapolis Colts in the first quarter during the game at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports)

If the media asks Peyton Manning how he’s feeling after a hard hit or how his neck/arm is doing, he generally gives a two-word response with no elaboration.

“I’m fine,” he says with a straight face. The media member that dares ask the question is almost shamed for even asking as demonstrated by the consistently short non-descriptive response.

That’s why you have to read this article by the Washington Post. Manning gave reporter Sally Jenkins a detailed account of his four neck surgeries in under two years as well as the rehab process. It’s never been heard before type stuff and well worth taking the time to read.

"At first, when Peyton Manning woke up from the anesthesia, he was relieved: The pain in the neck that he had lived with for years was gone. As he came to, he stirred in the hospital bed, took stock of his misery-free condition, and started to push himself upright. Then it happened — his right arm buckled beneath him. Surprised, he struggled again to sit up, and at that moment, he understood his career was in jeopardy. – Sally Jenkins (Washington Post)"

We know as fans that Manning went through a lot of rehab, but did you know that at one point, he couldn’t even grip a football?

The best quarterback in the game right now, and arguably ever is playing with two fused vertebrae and metal in his neck. He leads the league with 2,565 yards. He’s thrown 25 touchdowns and just three interceptions this season.

After reading this story, you’ll be even more appreciative of what Manning is doing on the field right now. If that’s even possible.

Make sure to follow Predominantly Orange on Facebook and on Twitter.