Colts owner Jim Irsay and quarterback Peyton Manning have been trading barbs over the past week. Manning said that the Colts facility was "not a real good environment" in the wake of Irsay's recent firing of general manager Bill Polian and head coach Jim Caldwell. Irsay shot back, calling Manning a "politician" and accusing him of not caring enough about the organization. In order to quell the firestorm that has formed over their public bickering, the two men released a joint statement through the Colts website on Friday:
Peyton Manning, Jim Irsay Issue Joint Statement, Deny Any ‘Hard Feelings’
We would like to dispel any misperception that there might be any hard feelings between us.
Since 1998, we have enjoyed a great relationship, based upon mutual respect and trust. We have always been able to talk and address matters we’ve faced over the years, not just as owner and player, but as friends. We had a long talk today and we want to assure Colts fans everywhere that we are both committed to maintaining our close relationship and to working together through any challenges the future may bring.
It’s tough to say at the moment how much collaboration went into the statement. Manning did seem more conciliatory in his statement on Thursday. The two men have yet to reach a decision regarding Manning’s future with the organization.
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