Eli Manning had previous minor procedures 'nobody knew about'

Eli Manning is coming off the worst statistical season of his career. (Simon Bruty/SI) New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning recently underwent surgery on

Eli Manning is coming off the worst statistical season of his career. (Simon Bruty/SI)

New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning recently underwent surgery on his ankle as rest wasn't providing the needed relief.

Some have expressed concern that the injury is just another example of Manning's decline, but former offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride doesn't think so.

Gilbride, who spent a handful of seasons with Manning in New York, came out earlier this week and suggested that rumors of Manning's decline were "ludicrous" and today further defended his former signal-caller by revealing to SirusXM NFL that Manning underwent previous minor procedures that nobody knew about.

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Gilbride didn't go into much detail, though he stated that Manning had little trouble bouncing back from those procedures and his current operation should be no different.

Of course, those previous surgeries were at a younger age and didn't follow a season where Manning was sacked nearly 40 times. But Gilbride doesn't feel Manning's current ankle injury will be reason for concern moving forward.

Still, it's of note to hear that Manning had underwent "secret" operations (if you will), even if they were relatively minor.