Broncos QB Peyton Manning Returns, NFL Mocks Analysis

Peyton Manning is returning to the Denver Broncos for the 2015 season, and at a reduced rate. Manning took a $4 million pay cut in order to come back to the Broncos, something he didn’t necessarily have to do but something that was necessary for the Broncos to make moves they need to in order to contend for a Super Bowl.

This was not unexpected, but the NFL Mocks staff is going to weigh in anyway, because that’s what we do.

Here’s what some of our writers thought about Manning’s decision to come back for another season.

Charles McDonald

"This move doesn’t mean much to me. Peyton Manning will post great stats during the regular season, but at this point in his career that’s irrelevant. This pay cut will mean nothing if the Broncos don’t win a Super Bowl this year in what very well may be Manning’s final NFL season. Ask me how I feel about this move next February."

Joe Wedra

"I’m not surprised that Manning made the team-friendly move. That’s who he is. He clearly isn’t done, and wants one more shot at knocking off Tom Brady. The Broncos will be active in Free Agency, but I’m not sure how much this affects anything. For now, it gives Denver one year of breathing room at the QB position."

Bo Martin

"Personally, I think this is a decision that will likely set the Broncos back two years. There is no doubt about Peyton’s place in NFL lure as a signal-caller, but the honest truth is that this far in his career, he’s no better than a mid-level quarterback. I didn’t miss a Broncos game last year and it was hard to deny his diminishing skills throughout the season. Will Peyton come back and put up good numbers? Absolutely. Will he be the reason they win a Super Bowl? No. At this point, the Broncos are still where they can competitively rebuild but Peyton isn’t going to surrender any reps to a developmental quarterback, which will leave Denver in a scramble come 2016.I just think at this point, the team is honoring his name and reputation and not making a decision that is aligned with the best interests of the future of the franchise."