The Denver Broncos are patiently waiting for Peyton Manning to make a decision about his future, and things could get awkward if the 39-year-old decides he wants to play in 2016.
If Manning is on the roster when the new league year begins March 8, his $19 million salary for 2016 would become fully guaranteed. It’s possible the Broncos could bring him back at a cheaper price should he want to return. However, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk cites a source close to the team’s thinking who believes they don’t want Manning back “at any price.”
The Broncos could, technically, cut Manning. They are reportedly hoping he retires so they won’t have to do that, similar to the situation between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Troy Polamalu last season.
While Denver is said to be holding off on contract discussions with Brock Osweiler out of respect for Manning, Florio reports that negotiations have already begun and are being kept private.
The exchange Manning had with Bill Belichick after the AFC Championship Game (video here) made it seem like the 14-time Pro Bowler is retiring. He could, of course, change his mind. But if he does, it’s likely that Manning will be playing for his third NFL team in 2016.
