ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Peyton Manning is back — as Brock Osweiler’s backup.
Manning’s injured left foot has improved enough for him to be in uniform and available Sunday for the first time in seven weeks. A fifth consecutive AFC West title and fourth consecutive first-round bye is on the line when the Broncos (11-4) host the San Diego Chargers (4-11).
Both quarterbacks seemingly were thrilled with Broncos coach Gary Kubiak’s announcement Wednesday before an evening walk-through.
Manning said he was glad to get back on the field with his teammates.
“I’m happy to be more of a part of it now than just being in street clothes and kind of quarantined in the indoor facility and working out on my own,” said Manning, whose last full practice was Nov. 13.
Osweiler said it was a vote of confidence to keep his starting job with the NFL’s only five-time MVP available.
“Obviously it means a lot,” Osweiler said. “It shows that Coach believes in me. … It feels good, but I have a job to do this week and that’s where my focus is.”
Rookie Trevor Siemian will serve as Denver’s third QB.
Thumbnail photo via Ron Chenoy/USA TODAY Sports Images
