Peyton Manning Ailing

Indianapolis, IN, United States

With the indication that Peyton Manning might not be ready to start the season, the Indianapolis Colts brought in the recently-retired Kerry Collins as the newest backup for their star quarterback.

Collins, who spent the past five years with the Tennessee Titans, his fifth NFL team, before announcing his retirement on July 5, indicated his eagerness to work for his newest employers, while considering the task ahead of helping the Colts.

"I'm happy to be here,'' Collins, who arrived at the Colts' complex Wednesday afternoon, ready to work, said via the Indianapolis Star. "I've got a lot of respect for the organization, for Peyton, for coach (Jim) Caldwell and the Polians. I'm going to try to help them in whatever role I can."

"I know my role coming in. Hopefully Peyton will be back. But if he's not, maybe I can be one of the guys that can help this ballclub win,'' added the 38-year-old veteran quarterback.

Though his velocity and pocket presence are considered as sound as Manning's, the 16-year NFL veteran is regarded for his high quarterback IQ along with his accuracy and his ability to minimize errors.

Collins, selected fifth overall pick of the 1995 draft by Carolina after churning a stellar collegiate career in Penn State, appeared in 10 contests (seven starts) last season for the Titans. He threw for 1,823 yards with 14 TD and eight interceptions in 2010.

In his career, Collins has thrown for 40,441 yards with 206 TD and 195 interceptions while playing for Carolina, New Orleans, the New York Giants, Oakland and Tennessee.

Collins, recognized with two Pro Bowl picks, quarterbacked the Giants to the Super Bowl though they were routed by the Baltimore Ravens.

Meanwhile, Manning, who has never missed a game in his 13 seasons with the Colts, remains uncertain to start as he continues to recover from a neck surgery performed on May 23.

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