As the Denver Broncos’ leading receiver, Demaryius Thomas has had to adapt to quarterback changes throughout the season. But the team hasn’t lost sight of its ultimate goal.
The Broncos wideout told NESN.com’s Ashley Allen at Super Bowl 50 Opening Night on Monday that “it’s a little different” to have Peyton Manning back under center after he missed Weeks 11 through 16 with shoulder and rib injuries. But Thomas said that was less important than what happened when backup Brock Osweiler took over.
“We kept winning,” Thomas told Allen. “Brock came in as a big leader … stepped up big, and we haven’t paid him back. It’s our time.”
Of course, that doesn’t mean Thomas doesn’t want to beat the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 for Manning, too. The 28-year-old said having a relationship with any quarterback is important, and the Broncos are particularly close.
“All of our relationships are very close,” Thomas said. “We talk, we hang out, we have offensive bonding days, which help us out, as well. It’s big, especially to have a bond with a receiver because if you’re on the same page as the quarterback, most of the time you have a good day.”
And as for Manning’s health, Thomas isn’t worried at all. The 39-year-old Manning might be on his way out of the NFL, but he’s performed significantly better after getting six weeks of rest.
Thomas doesn’t think there should be any concern about him going into Sunday’s game.
“I don’t think so,” Thomas said. “I think he’ll be fine. If you thought he’d get re-injured, he’d for sure not play a lot. We’d let Brock in for this big of a game. He wouldn’t go out and try to hurt the team because he’s injured and tried to play through it. He’ll be fine.”
Thumbnail photo via Peter Casey/USA TODAY Sports Images
