The Facts: Manning's future beyond this season will be determined by the results of an offseason exam on his surgically repaired neck, sources familiar with the star quarterback's mindset told ESPN's Chris Mortensen.

Diehards Line: Despite setting NFL single-season records for passing yards and touchdowns in 2013 with the Denver Broncos, Manning will undergo the physical exam in March, as mandated by his contract, the sources told Mortensen. If the exam reveals that his neck is stable, Manning plans to return to the Broncos in 2014, regardless of how Denver fares this postseason, according to sources. But if there is an increased risk of injury, Manning will be forced to decide whether to retire, sources said. ... So we now know what the biggest story between now and March will be. Prepare for the onslaught.