INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts agreed to terms Wednesday with formerly retired quarterback Kerry Collins, making him the likely starter in case Peyton Manning isn’t healed from offseason neck surgery by the season opener Sept. 11.
The move gives the team a veteran presence at the position and is an ndication that Manning’s streak of 227 starts, including playoff games, is in serious jeopardy.
Manning had surgery May 23 to repair a nerve in his neck, and the recovery has gone slower than expected partially, Manning said, because he couldn’t work out with team trainers during the 4 1/2-month lockout.
Collins has a career 55.8 completion percentage and has thrown for 40,441 yards, 206 touchdowns and 195 interceptions.
Johnson, Titans hold talks
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee general manager Mike Reinfeldt said Wednesday’s meeting with Chris Johnson was beneficial even though no deal was reached to end the running back’s holdout.
The GM expects to talk with the running back’s agent again in the “next day or so.” The Titans and Johnson have been far apart on an extension, even though team officials have said they are ready to make the three-time Pro Bowler the highest paid running back in NFL history.
Johnson has said he will not report until he gets a new deal even with two years’ left on his contract.
Chiefs LB Siler out for season
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Brandon Siler tore an Achilles tendon during practice this week and will be sidelined for the season.
Siler was competing for the middle linebacker spot alongside Derrick Johnson after signing with the Chiefs as a free agent. Siler had looked good throughout fall camp after picking up 44 tackles, one sack and one interception in 12 games with the San Diego Chargers last season.
Around the league
* JETS: New York wide receiver Plaxico Burress tweaked his lower back in practice Tuesday but insisted it’s no big deal and wouldn’t even call it an injury. Burress, who made his preseason debut Sunday night, said he’ll play Saturday against the New York Giants, his former team.
* RAVENS: Offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie signed a two-year contract with Baltimore after passing his physical Wednesday. McKinnie played the past nine years with the Minnesota Vikings.
* CARDINALS: Arizon shored up its depleted quarterback ranks by signing Brodie Croyle. The Cardinals parted ways with Max Hall, who partially dislocated his left shoulder in practice Monday. Hall was waived-injured, a move that could lead to an injury settlement with the second-year quarterback.
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