2015 NFL Free Agency: Best Fits If Broncos Cut Peyton Manning
By Erik Lambert
Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) reacts against the Indianapolis Colts in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Colts defeated the Broncos 24-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Peyton Manning is working out and all indications are he plans to return in 2015 for what will be a remarkable 18th season in league. What hasn’t been talked about enough is the big $64,000 question. Do the Denver Broncos want him back for another year?
It’s fair to say they would not have cleaned out the coaching staff like they have if such was the case. The hiring of Gary Kubiak to take over only strengthens the argument. Kubiak traditionally prefers a quarterback with more movement ability, something that has never been a part of Manning’s game.
Then there is the contract. Manning is owed $19 million in base salary alone for 2015 and holds a $21.5 million salary cap figure. By parting ways the Broncos could save $16.5 million against their cap, turning them into serious players for 2015 NFL free agency.
There are certainly plenty of reasons for the Broncos to cut their losses and start fresh. So if they were to do so and Manning still had plans on playing this season, which teams would make the most sense?
Houston Texans
Bill O’Brien is searching for answers at quarterback after his team finished 9-7 with the likes of Ryan Fitzpatrick and Case Keenum running the short. A rental option on Manning in a rather weak division would certainly sound enticing. The Houston Texans gain a virtual lock to reach the playoffs and Manning takes over an offense with Arian Foster, Andre Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins as the headliners.
Buffalo Bills
Everybody is talking about Mark Sanchez given the Rex Ryan connection, but the Buffalo Bills have to get serious. Their roster is ready to win now. A few upgrades at a couple offensive positions along with their suffocating defense and they can finally break that post-season drought. Why not go for all the marbles with Manning? He’d have Sammy Watkins as his go-to receiver and a defense that held the eventual champion Patriots to 9 points in the season finale back in December.
Tennessee Titans
Ken Whisenhunt has a history of favoring veterans over rookies when it comes to quarterbacks. The Tennessee Titans are on the lookout for help at the position. Bypassing the use of the #2 pick on a QB in favor of bringing in Manning sounds like something he would get behind. It might be just the ticket the Titans need to finally unlock the potential of young receiver Justin Hunter and permit Tennessee to focus on bolstering a promising young defense.
Chicago Bears
This would be the team that makes the most sense. Why? The Chicago Bears have inherited Manning’s former coaches in John Fox and Adam Gase, so there’s familiarity. Current starter Jay Cutler has worn out his welcome there, big contract or not. Then there is the presence of Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, Matt Forte and Martellus Bennett. That’s as talented an offense as Peyton Manning could hope to inherit. It’s just a natural fit for all parties involved.