Indianapolis Colts’ Peyton Manning will miss the first NFL match of his career after failing to recover in time from neck surgery.
The 35-year-old, who had racked up 227 consecutive starts since being drafted by the Colts in 1998, won't play against the Houston Texans this Sunday.
"To say I am disappointed in not being able to play is an understatement. The best part about football is being out there on the field with my teammates," Manning said.
"It will be tough not to be out there playing for the organization and our fans. I simply am not healthy enough to play, and I am doing everything I can to get my health back."
Kerry Collins, who came out of retirement to sign for the Colts recently, will take Manning's place in the lineup.
