If no deal is done, Colts will use franchise tag on Manning

A new contract or not, Peyton Manning will be playing football wearing an Indianapolis Colts jersey in 2011.

News spread Thursday that if the Colts don't come to terms for a contract before the collective bargaining agreement expires on March 3rd, Indianapolis will place a franchise tag on him that will keep him in a Colts jersey at $23 million for the 2011 season. If the franchise tag is placed on Manning, he will not be able to pursue other options.

This would be a second time that the franchise tag has been placed on Manning, who in 2004 had the tag placed on him before the Colts came to terms with a seven-year, $98 million dollar contract.

If the Colts were to pursue this option, they will have until February 22 to do so.

wsbt.com

If no deal is done, Colts will use franchise tag on Manning

The Indianapolis Colts have a back-up plan if it looks as if the Colts won't reach terms with star quarterback Peyton Manning before the collective bargaining agreement expires on March 3rd, placing the franchise tag on him and paying the Pro-Bowler $23 million for 2011.