NFL Notes: Peyton Manning, Dez Bryant, Ravens, & Steelers

Peyton Manning

Tony Grossi of ESPN Cleveland writes that if Peyton Manning decides to try his hand as a football team executive, “it is generally assumed that Browns owner Jimmy Haslam would be first in line to take it.”

Manning had has a relationship with Haslam, given that they both have obvious ties to the University of Tennessee football program.

“Of course, Jimmy Haslam, who owns the Browns, is a great Tennessee Volunteer, as well. There is a great connection there and we both have a real passion for the university and both have a real thirst to get University of Tennessee Football back going again,” Manning said of the Browns’ owner.

“When we do talk, which is not very often, especially in season, it’s usually about Tennessee football and kind of how we’re doing,” Manning said. “I’ve enjoyed having that relationship with him because we have a lot of common about our love for the University of Tennessee.”

Previous speculation has linked Manning to the Titans, and there was talk a few years back that Tennessee may have offered him a deal that included a stake in the franchise.

Dez Bryant

• Cowboys WR Dez Bryant tells Desmond Purnell that “we’re getting there” regarding his recovery from a broken bone in his foot. Bryant added that he doesn’t plan on taking time off this week.
• On Thursday, Bryant was able to get some rehab work done on the Cowboys’ practice field. (Charean Williams)

Ravens

• Dan Patrick said during Thursday’s show that Ravens HC John Harbaugh is “high on the short list” for the USC head coaching job. (Paul Stzegowski)

Steelers

• Jason La Canfora reports there is “no expectation” Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger (MCL, bone bruise) will play in Week 6’s game.
• Instead, La Canfora mentions Week 7’s game against the Chiefs as a more realistic return date for Roethlisberger.