Colts owner Jim Irsay responds to backlash for criticizing Peyton Manning

(USA Today Sports Images)

The only thing missing from this buildup about Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning’s return to Indianapolis is Don King waving two American flags at the next press conference.

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has been criticized for his negative comments about Manning during a recent interview with USA Today’s Jarrett Bell. Irsay noted the need for a change because Indianapolis was knocked out the first round of the playoffs seven times during 11 appearances with Manning. While Manning had great statistics in the regular season, Irsay said he preferred to win championships.

Broncos coach John Fox addressed Irsay’s comments on Tuesday and said the owner took a “cheap shot.” Fox proceeded to labels Irsay’s public opinion as “disappointing and inappropriate.”

Irsay decided responded to his critics via Twitter on Wednesday:

The person Irsay quotes in his response is Manning.

Manning is scheduled to speak with the media on Wednesday, but it is hard to imagine he will take the bait and say anything negative about Irsay. Manning is probably more focused on facing the Colts’ defense than responding to an owner who is reaping the profits off a stadium he helped build because of the quarterback's successful tenure in Indianapolis.

However, it will be interesting to hear Manning's response.

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Anwar S Richardson is a writer for Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at NFLAnwar@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!

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