Colts plan to start contract talk with Manning after draft

The Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay recently told reporters that the team is planning to start negotiations on a new contract with star quarterback Peyton Manning after the draft, with the purpose to make Manning the highest-paid quarterback in the league.

"We know Peyton’s going to be paid, along with (New England quarterback Tom) Brady, at the top of the league," Irsay said. "But it’s really important to make sure we get a deal that for the next four, five, six years works for the franchise."

Manning had surgery March 2 to relieve pain in his neck and he is expected to wear back his No. 18 Colts jersey in time to participate fully in the team’s offseason program that begins on April 12. Besides, safety Bob Sanders and wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez are also expected to return from injury in time for training camp.