The Denver Broncos insist they’re willing to wait for Peyton Manning’s decision about his future — for now.
Broncos head coach Gary Kubiak told reporters Wednesday at the NFL Scouting Combine that the club is can wait a little longer for Manning to decide whether he still wants to play football, and the team plans to speak with the QB this week.
Manning acknowledged retirement is an option in recent months, but he wouldn’t commit either way after Denver defeated the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 three weeks ago.
“There’s no hurry here,” Kubiak told reporters, per ProFootballTalk.com. “Nothing has changed … We’re going to let him take his time.”
However, there figures to be a hurry in the near future, as Manning’s decision has huge financial implications for Denver. If Manning decides he want to continue playing, the Broncos would have a decision to make. Manning has one year left on his contract, and he’s guaranteed a hefty $19 million should he return.
That decision — either on Manning’s side or the team’s — be made by the end of the day on March 8. If Manning still is on the team by then, his 2016 salary becomes guaranteed. If Manning wants to play, the Broncos likely would have to choose between the soon-to-be 40-year-old or going in a different direction, likely re-signing backup Brock Osweiler, who will be a free agent this offseason.
While retirement, especially after a Super Bowl win, would seem to be Manning’s most likely decision, he might have some options should he return and the Broncos decide they want to move on from him. ESPN.com reported in early February that the Los Angeles Rams could have interest in Manning if he decides not to retire.
Thumbnail photo via Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports Images
