Peyton Manning To Be a Bronco

Added on Mar 19, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

According to ESPN NFL Insiders Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen, free agent quarterback Peyton Manning has decided to begin negotiations with the Denver Broncos to become their next starting quarterback. Unless there is a breakdown at the bargaining table, all signs point to the future Hall of Famer taking his talents to the Rocky Mountain state.

Denver emerged as the frontrunner in the Manning sweepstakes late last week after attending a work out held at Duke University. Evidently executive VP John Elway, head coach John Fox and an army of team doctors liked what they saw. Manning also worked out for San Francisco and Tennessee, but neither organization, for whatever reason, held the same appeal as Denver.

What becomes of Tim Tebow? He will likely be placed on the trading block, although considering his limited passing skills, it’s doubtful many teams will offer much in return. Miami is still searching for an answer under center after losing out on both Manning and Matt Flynn, who agreed to terms with the Seahawks yesterday, but they appear to be leaning toward the draft.

Jacksonville has 2011 first-rounder Blaine Gabbert, but Tebow’s vast popularity in the city would make him a shrewd financial decision for a franchise desperate to fill seats. That said, it remains to be seen whether he can actually help them on the field. An offense suited to his skill-set (i.e. running) must be installed for him to be effective. New head coach Mike Mularkey employs a pass heavy scheme, so Tebow seems like a bad fit. Then there’s always the Patriots, who love using gimmick formations.

As for Manning, a deal with Denver will help quell the persistent rumors that he wouldn’t be able to play at the same level he did in Indianapolis. A glut of league pundits and network talking heads have speculated the nerve damage in Manning’s throwing arm would prevent him from returning to full strength. On top of that, he’s undergone four neck surgeries, which is problematic.

Denver is clearly taking a risk, but the chance to add a four-time MVP quarterback is too enticing to pass up.

Source: ESPN.com