Report: Peyton Manning Training In New Orleans With Intent To Play In 2015

Jeff Duncan of The Times-Picayune reports that Broncos QB Peyton Manning is training in New Orleans with the intent to play in 2015.

• According to Duncan, Manning has already been evaluated by fitness trainer Mackie Shilstone, and is expected to begin training with him this week.
• Duncan adds that Manning would still like to speak with Broncos GM John Elway before making an announcement, but a meeting could happen in the next few days.

ESPN’s Chris Mortensen previously reported that Manning isn’t expected to keep the team waiting long in regards to him being back next season. 

According to 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 but it still will be Kubiak’s system.”

Manning met with Kubiak a few weeks ago “to get to know each other.”

“I’m not interested in making this a lingering thing,” Manning said, via Mike Klis of the Denver Post. “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.”

Manning also downplayed the idea that Kubiak’s system could play a big role in this decision to return next year.

“I know that’s been a hot topic of discussion,” Manning said. “We didn’t get into that. If I choose to come back, I feel pretty comfortable — aside from Tubby Raymond’s Delaware Blue Hens wing T offense — I feel pretty comfortable playing in any offense. I don’t see that being a factor.”

Manning, 38, has another two years remaining on his five-year, $96 million contract, which includes base salaries of $19 million for the 2015 and 2016 seasons. If he’s still on the team’s roster as of the final day of the 2014 league year, his base salary becomes fully guaranteed..

Manning’s 2014 season ended with him throwing for 4,727 yards while completing 66.2 percent of his passes to go along with 39 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Pro Football Focus rated him as the No. 10 quarterback out of 39 qualifying players.

We’ll have more updates regarding the Broncos and Manning as the news is available.