Peyton Manning, Clay Matthews Named in Alleged Doping Ring

An Al-Jazeera investigative report is alleging that legendary quarterback Peyton Manning and several other intriguing figures in the sports world have been named in an alleged doping ring. The report was made public by a Huffington Post article released Saturday night, who also alleged the doping ring. The report names HGH and a drug known as “Delta-2”  in the report.

The report alleges that Manning was supplied HGH (Human Growth Hormones) following multiple surgeries on his nick during his time in Indianapolis in 2011. The report names a former employee of the Indianapolis clinic that allegedly supplied Manning. The report alleges that Manning’s wife’s name was on the medicine, which was allegedly transferred through the mail.

The NFL banned HGH in 2011 under the new CBA, but did not start testing until 2014. There have been no statements from the NFL or any of the other sports leagues who’s players have been named in the report.

Manning’s agent has denied the report that the 39-year old quarterback took HGH, but did confirm he visited the clinic.

"“The treatment he received at the Guyer Institute was provided on the advice of his physician and with the knowledge of team doctors and trainers.”"

Here is the Al-Jazeera promo for the documentary due to air next week.

Among the NFL players named to have allegedly participated in the doping ring include Clay Matthews, Dustin Keller, James Harrison and Julius Peppers. Matthews was cited for allegedly using painkillers supplied by the clinic, while the other named players allegedly used the Delta-2 drug.

Other sports figures named in this report include Philadelphia Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard, Washington Nationals Infielder Ryan Zimmerman, and boxer Mike Tyson.

Interestingly, the majority of the alleged users of this drug were suffering from either major injuries or the effects of aging. Phillies First Baseman Ryan Howard, for example, tore his achillies tendon in the 2011 MLB playoffs.

One of the sources, who was allegedly recorded during this investigation, has retracted the statements held by the news organization.

Manning is known by many NFL fans as one of the best quarterbacks to ever don a jersey. Earlier this year he passed Brett Favre on the all-time passing yards list. He is a 14-time Pro Bowler and won a Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts. He is currently nursing a foot injury and has not played for several weeks.

More information is due to come out on this story and we will attempt to cover this story as best we can. Until there is any further reports or statements, we will rightfully consider all of the alleged parties innocent.

Stay connected to NFL Mocks as we continue to cover this breaking story.