The Denver Broncos are expected by many to open up negotiations with backup quarterback Brock Osweiler with the likely intention of promoting him to a starting role, but said negotiations are on hold for right now.
Per Mike Klis of 9News, "out of respect to Manning, the Broncos have not engaged in contract negotiations with Osweiler, who played well while posting a 5-2 record as a starting quarterback in 2015 but otherwise spent the past 3 ½ seasons serving as Manning’s backup."
Manning will have to notify the Broncos of his retirement or return plans for the 2016 season before March 8th. The next day, the final year of Manning's five-year contract ($19 million) will be fully guaranteed.
Rumblings around Denver posit that the Broncos are ready to move forward with Osweiler as the future, but a Super Bowl victory with the veteran Manning at the helm puts things in limbo.
If Manning indeed wants to come back, will the Broncos be willing to put the future on hold for one more year and give Manning back the reins with an opportunity at a repeat? More news on the Broncos' QB competition inside Chat Sports' iPhone and Android apps!
There's also the fact that the Broncos will have to overpay Osweiler comparative to his experience level, seeing that this year's free agency class for quarterbacks is extremely weak. Either they'll have to pony up in the neighborhood of $16-17 million per year on a multi-year pact or risk $20 million or so with a franchise tag.
All in all, nothing will be set in motion in Denver until Manning makes a decision. If he decides to keep playing, that's when the real fun and decision-making will begin. If Manning remains on roster, it could very well open up Osweiler for a move, with QB-seeking teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles and Cleveland Browns lurking in the marketplace.
Multiple reports still indicate that Manning is leaning towards riding off into the sunset, but that's still just hearsay until proven otherwise.
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