Denver Broncos: Possible Insurance Plans for Peyton Manning

By Joel Childers | Oct 24, 2015

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Oct 4, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback

Peyton Manning

(18) is tackled to the ground by Minnesota Vikings defensive end

Everson Griffen

(97) in the first quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Through six weeks of the NFL season, the Denver Broncos may be one of the least impressive 6-0 teams in recent memory. Five of their six victories have been by seven or less points, and they have scored only nine offensive touchdowns. Quarterback Peyton Manning, unquestionably one of the best quarterbacks of all time, has simply not been good.

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Manning has 10 interceptions to only 7 touchdowns, and his completion percentage of 61.6% and passer rating of 72.5 are the lowest they’ve been since his rookie season in 1998. His yards per completion and yards per attempt are the lowest they’ve been in his career, and its clear that he is simply past his prime as an NFL quarterback.

The running game has been stagnant, as the Broncos have averaged only 85 yards on the ground per game. Peyton Manning’s diminished arm strength has allowed defenses to cheat up on the run. Defenses aren’t as worried about Manning’s deep-ball as they have been in the past.

SEE ALSO: Where Does Manning Rank Among the Greatest QBs Ever?

As a surefire Pro Football Hall of Famer, Peyton Manning has earned himself a certain amount of slack, and the Broncos would have to be very sure about their decision if they benched him for another quarterback. They’ve started the season 6-0, but have only played one team that is above .500, and their opponents to this point have a combined record of 10-24.

For the rest of the season, the Broncos have five games against teams that were in the playoffs last season, including three games against teams that are also currently undefeated. As the competition gets tough, the Broncos are going to need Manning to perform at a much higher level. The defense, which has been absolutely stellar, will be unable to score enough touchdowns on their own to keep up with the likes of Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Andrew Luck, and Andy Dalton.

If Peyton Manning can’t raise his level of play, there’s a chance the Broncos will be looking for another option at quarterback. His backup Brock Osweiler may be the solution, but his 30 career pass attempts are simply not enough to show us he can lead a team to success. If Denver decides to move on from Manning, they may be on the market for a new quarterback. The quarterback market is fairly slim, but there are a few veterans who could provide a boost to the team.

Next: One Hit Wonder?

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