Today, Peyton Manning was released by the Indianapolis Colts after fourteen stellar seasons. Two weeks ago, the Steelers let Hines Ward go after twelve special years. A decade ago, teams rarely waved goodbye to players that established themselves so fully with the team, brand, & organization. Twenty years ago this never happened. As sad as it is to admit, a era has died . . . replaced by a business associated one. The ironic thing is, the former paved the way for the latter.
Look at Peyton's case. You as long as I've watched football, Peyton Manning took the snaps for the Colts. He made them a powerhouse & constant threat for championships (winning one in 2007, Indy's first since 1970). So the team's higher-ups rewarded him for his loyalty, in the form a mega contract (five years $90 million dollars). Then he got hurt, baldy hurt. He missed the entire season last year & the Colts finished 2-14. They declared that they were rebuilding & needed Peyton's money to do so. That was why he was released. Money also played a factor in Hines being let go, for the Steelers have no cap-space room & value signing Mike Wallace over Ward. These are business decisions. This is the new NFL.
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