Watching Tom Brady and the New England Patriots win their fourth Super Bowl under head coach Bill Belichick may have just been a bit too much for Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning to bear.
Manning, who announced after Denver's heartbreaking loss in the opening round of the playoffs to the Indianapolis Colts that he would take some time to ponder his future with the NFL and with the Broncos, has decided to return for next season, according to a report from Gil Brandt of NFL.com.
"Hearing Peyton Manning almost certainly will return for 18th season. Not a huge surprise," Brandt tweeted Monday.
Manning had said earlier in the season that he had every intention of playing next year despite the wear and tear on his body and, more specifically, his surgically repaired neck. But after the unexpected loss and the firing of head coach John Fox, Manning declared that he needed time to mull his future, prompting rumors and speculation that he could retire from the NFL.
Now, it seems Manning will return for at least one more go-round with the Broncos.
Manning, who met with new head coach Gary Kubiak Friday, was close to announcing his return for an 18th season, per ESPN's Chris Mortensen:
"Manning has been fairly persuaded that all will work well between him and new head coach Gary Kubiak, who is ready and willing to fit his scheme to play to the quarterback's strengths."
The 38 year old Manning threw for 4,727 yards and 39 touchdowns last season.
His $19 million salary for next year becomes guaranteed if he is on the roster come March 9.
He must undergo a physical examination on his neck within 10 days of the start of the new league year, which begins March 10.
