During a week in which the Denver Broncos would rather be playing than being a spectator, Peyton Manning accepted the 2015 Bart Starr Award in Glendale, Arizona Friday.
The veteran quarterback was appreciative and classy as usual in his acceptance speech and he also provided some insight into his health and future.
The award is given to a player that reflects character and contributions off the field. Manning accepted the award and gave his thoughts on the man it is named after.
“I’ve always had the greatest admiration for Bart Starr because of his leadership, integrity and success as an NFL quarterback,” said Manning. “He’s a Hall of Fame player and, most importantly, a Hall of Fame person who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to giving back. To be recognized with this prestigious honor named after Bart and voted on by my peers is very humbling.”
Manning then fielded questions regarding his future and his possible return to the Broncos in 2015.
“No, I haven’t made a decision. I’m still trying to take some time to evaluate some things, to talk to some people. Obviously the Broncos have been quite busy hiring a staff, but I have had some dialogue with [Head] Coach [Gary] Kubiak and did have a chance to see him in person the other day,” Manning said. “I’m not interested in making this a lingering thing; I’d like to make a decision soon. At the same time, both Coach and Joe and John have instructed me to take some time, so I’m kind of following their orders.”
Since Kubiak’s hiring there has been much speculation as to whether or not Manning could play in the system Kubiak has run throughout his coaching career. Manning was quick to dismiss the worries about the new coach’s style of offense.
“Yeah, I know that’s been a hot topic of discussion. Of course we didn’t get into that. If I choose to come back, I feel pretty comfortable aside maybe from Tubby Raymond’s Delaware Blue Hen Wing T offense, I feel pretty comfortable playing in any offense. I really do. So I don’t see that being really a factor.”
Manning must pass his physical that was written into his contract with concern to his several neck surgeries prior to his time in Denver. March 9 will be the deadline when his $19 million salary will be guaranteed for the 2014-15 season. Manning clearly has a big decision ahead and hinted at his current health.
“Of course there are some important dates and deadlines,” Manning acknowledged. “I don’t see that physical being that significant to tell you the truth as far as the revelation out of that. I feel pretty confident that I’ll pass that physical and that my neck is in good shape.”
It seems that Manning is leaning toward returning for his 18th season but the deadline is fast approaching. Friday brought possibly the only time he will comment publicly until his final decision is made. If he is physically healthy it would be shocking if Manning called it a career. All Broncos Country can do now is wait.
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