The rigors of 18 seasons of professional football have taken a toll on Peyton Manning’s body and will continue to do so in the future.
Manning told reporters Wednesday he’ll likely require hip surgery at some stage in his life, according to The Denver Post’s Nicki Jhabvala. Manning said one of the many doctors he has seen about his troublesome neck offered a glimpse into his future as an everyday, walking citizen.
“Certainly when you have injuries, when you have surgeries, the doctors will sometimes mention to you, whether you ask them or not, ‘Hey, you’re probably headed for a hip replacement at a certain time in your life,'” Manning said, according to Jhabvala. “And I say, ‘Doc, I didn’t ask you when I’m going to have a hip replacement. I didn’t need to know that right here at age 37. Thanks for sharing. I look forward to that day, 52 and having a hip replacement.'”
Manning, now 39, appreciates knowing what ailments he could battle in the future.
“So am I going to have some potential neck procedures down the road? I don’t know the answer to that. The hip part was true. I can’t remember which doctor told me that,” Manning said. “I’ve seen a lot of doctors, but he was nice to share that information with me.”
For now, Manning is focused on leading the Denver Broncos to victory over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday in Super Bowl 50. The legendary quarterback has hinted he’ll retire after the game but hasn’t announced a decision yet.
Manning on Tuesday joked that Tom Brady will play until he’s 70 years old. If it happens, Manning likely will be walking stadium stairs to watch his old nemesis with new hips.
Thumbnail photo via Ron Chenoy/USA TODAY Sports Images
