The quarterback drama of the Denver Broncos has been an unexpected turn for the NFL team. With an NFL MVP in the roster, there has never been any question of who will start for the football squad. In fact, the injury of Peyton Manning in the highly anticipated match against Tom Brady's New England Patriots dampened the spirits of the fans. However, the same game proved to be a glorious day for the Denver Broncos. Coming off the sidelines, backup Brock Osweiler managed to lead a win over a then undefeated Rob Gronkowski squad.
The feat, albeit spectacular, later on, posed an issue for the Denver Broncos. Osweiler's subsequent performances showed that the NFL team have been too focused on Manning's abilities. That is, the younger quarterback has incredible potential. Moreover, Manning is currently facing HGH accusations courtesy of Deborah Davies from Al Jazeera. Hence, the Denver Broncos are confronted with these concerns: Should they start with a quarterback carrying so many issues? Or should they grab the chance for a new beginning?
Ultimately, the Denver Broncos opted for Manning. Gary Kubiak shared that there was never a question regarding the veteran's position in the NFL team. While the Denver Broncos head coach praised Osweiler, the football squad will always look up to Manning as their leader.
"Looking forward to Peyton leading our football team, feel very good about that," said Kubiak via ESPN. He added, "Best for our football team, but I also know Brock will be ready to play." Manning will be starting for the Denver Broncos in the playoffs.
Kubiak went on to state, "I feel really good about this. I feel good about how far Peyton has come, where he's at physically, mentally, everything. I could see it happening the last two weeks. I'm excited for him to get going."
For his part, Manning shared that he is thrilled with the decision. However, the starting quarterback also hinted at possible retirement plans after this NFL season.
"Look, I'd be lying to say I've never thought [about that]," shared Manning, referring to the question of whether this might be his last NFL season. He added, "I know people would say, 'I've never thought about that,' and that's probably not the case. But I am excited to be thinking about who we're going to play this weekend, and to have the opportunity to help, to contribute in some way. As far as anything beyond that, there'll be a time and a place for that, but sitting here on Thursday, that's certainly not the time."
As for Osweiler, fans initially speculated that the backup might be looking into other options if he does not make the starting lineup for the playoffs. With some NFL teams looking for a reliable quarterback, such as the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers, the Denver Broncos star could snag a lucrative and long-term deal. However, Osweiler remains supportive of his current team and is optimistic that the playoffs will still present opportunities for him.
"It's a bit of a disappointment," admitted Osweiler on his return as the backup, according to a separate ESPN report. He added, "It's hard to hear you're not going to be the one playing. However, I'm a big team player."