Manning cleared to play by doctors

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Updated: March 4, 2012 8:20AM

Peyton Manning has been medically cleared by two doctors, including Dr. Robert Watkins, who performed the most recent surgery on the Colts quarterback’s neck, to resume his NFL career. Watkins examined Manning recently in Los Angeles and concluded the stability in his neck would have allowed the quarterback to play this Sunday if the nerves in his arm had regenerated to a satisfactory performance level.

Colts hire Manusky as new defensive coordinator: The Colts have hired Greg Manusky as defensive coordinator. New general manager Ryan Grigson made the announcement Thursday. Manusky was San Diego’s defensive coordinator last year and the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2007-10. It’s not been determined yet whether the Colts will keep their 4-3 defense or switch to a 3-4.

Packers name Clements new offensive coordinator: The Green Bay Packers have promoted Tom Clements to offensive coordinator. Clements has been the Packers’ quarterbacks coach since 2006. He replaces Joe Philbin, who left Green Bay to become the Miami Dolphins’ coach.

Jackson agrees to 1-year deal with Nationals: The Washington Nationals are heading to spring training with what appears to be one of the deepest starting staffs in the major leagues after landing former Sox right-hander Edwin Jackson on Thursday. Jackson agreed to a one-year contract, a deal that gives the Nationals seven potential starting pitchers.

Woman charged with extorting Yankees GM Cashman: A woman has been charged with stalking and shaking down New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman. Prosecutors say she extorted $6,000 from Cashman, tried to squeeze $15,000 more and engaged in “a long-term effort to control and manipulate” him.

Local briefs

Coles returns to RailCats: Mike Coles, a former Hammond High star who began his professional baseball career with the RailCats in 2006, will be back at U.S. Steel Yard this season after signing a contract on Thursday. After batting .274 with one homer, 20 RBI and 16 steals in 74 games for the RailCats in 2006, Coles spent two years with Windy City in the Frontier League and then played all but one game of the past three seasons for Fargo-Moorhead in the Northern League and American Association. For more on Coles, visit post-trib.com/sports.

VU women fall at Youngstown State: Valparaiso battled back from a 10-point second-half deficit to tie the game in the final two minutes but could never take the lead in a 64-58 loss to Youngstown State on Thursday evening in Youngstown, Ohio.

Wheeler’s Finch commits to IU Northwest: Wheeler senior forward Paige Finch committed on Thursday to play basketball at IU Northwest. Finch is averaging 10.7 points and 5.8 rebounds for the 15-5 Bearcats who recently captured the Greater South Shore Tournament and Conference Championships. Local baseball team looking for players: The Indiana Nitroz 15U baseball team is looking for seasoned and experienced players to add to its roster for the summer season. For information, contact coach Jay at 644-5891.