Peyton

          Although it's been a long time in coming, Peyton Manning was officially released from the Colts today.  The press conference and his farewell speech were heartbreaking, upsetting enough that I can't actually recommend anyone watch it.   His voice was hoarse, and he was close to tears through the whole thing.  He was a stand up guy, though, and I really hope he does well on whatever team he ends up with in the next few weeks (hopefully not the Broncos or the Chiefs, two Raiders rivals that are apparently in the hunt).

          I have to admit, despite having known this would happen for a while, I am still shocked that they Colts actually released Peyton.  He has been, arguably the greatest quarterback to ever through the football (Brady and Montana arguments aside), and now he is a free agent, cut by the franchise that he built.  Honestly... it's shocking, and sometimes it's scary to be reminded how much the game is still a business.   I know football people will tell me that we've seen it happen before with Montana, but I am still shocked.

          I suppose the Colts made the best business decision.  Andrew Luck is supposed to be great, although I don't think anyone can truly justify saying that he will definitely be as good as Peyton.  Aside from Luck's probably bright future, they couldn't put their money on Peyton with his history of neck injuries.

          It's also probably the best decision for Peyton.  If he is healed and able to throw at a high level again, then I'm personally glad he'll have the opportunity to play for a playoff caliber team (can't you tell I'm rooting for him).  I bet he could have dragged the Colts to the playoffs for the next few years, but there's no chance they would have done much more than that.  At the helm of a better team, maybe he can make another Super Bowl run.

          Either way, I wish him luck!