On Wednesday, Peyton Manning had a much-anticipated doctors appointment to examine what progress he's made from September neck surgery. Many thought the Indianapolis Colts would provide some kind of update as to Manning's status during coach Jim Caldwell's Thursday news conference, but the Hall of Fame-bound quarterback's status remains a mystery.
"We have not, not at this point," Caldwell said when asked if he received the results from Manning's exam. "As soon as we get the information, we'll certainly get it to you."
Manning was not seen at practice Thursday and did not address reporters after practice, but the Colts said he was at the team facility.
Manning made an impromptu visit to the Colts locker room following a practice in early November, telling reporters that Wednesday's appointment was the next checkpoint in his recovery.
Manning also told reporters that day that he wanted to practice with the Colts at some point in December and possibly play in a game late in the season. The latter of those two scenarios seems less likely now, considering the Colts still are winless and have just turned the team over to ex-Lions QB Dan Orlovsky.
Manning's ability to at least practice this season will be key as the Colts attempt to weigh whether or not to pay Manning his $28 million bonus this offseason.
"It's a one-year deal with a four-year extension," Manning said in November. "Part of the reason to practice is so the Colts have a fair chance to evaluate where I am. The team has a right to know where you are physically and where your health is."
