While it has been widely believed that Colts quarterback Peyton Manning underwent three neck procedures last year, Sports Illustrated’s Don Banks is reporting that an unknown fourth surgery also took place.
“SI.com has learned from NFL sources that Manning actually underwent a fourth, unreported, medical procedure in the past two years, not three as has been widely known.”
The report claims that the procedure took place after a May 23 surgery to correct a bulging disk, but before a cervical neck fusion surgery on Sept. 9.
That’s not all not the report found out. League sources also told SI that Manning has potentially developed bone spurs in his neck. The bone spurs reportedly developed from the fusion surgery that took place in September. SI is also reporting that the Colts believe another surgery for Manning is “nearly inevitable.”
Meanwhile, Manning continues to throw the ball and workout in hopes of playing in 2012. The Colts still need to decide what they are going to do with Manning’s option and whether or not they want him to remain in Indianapolis.