Peyton Manning's future with the Denver Broncos remains up in the air heading into Super Bowl 50, as the quarterback may consider retiring after playing the Panthers in the big game on Sunday.
There have been numerous reports through the season that Manning will retire, but Manning has not given any official word about his decision yet. According to a report from Pro Football Talk, Manning has told close friends that he is likely going to retire, but the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Manning has said he is unsure if the Super Bowl will be his final game.
It's possible that Manning has not made his mind up yet about the decision, but either way, it's a strong possibility that he could retire. Manning is under contract for another season with the Broncos, but Adam Schefter at ESPN reports that "most around the league do not expect him to return to Denver next season." Manning could retire, but if he doesn't, there is a chance the Broncos may want to start the post-Manning era moving forward.
It's not that the Broncos wouldn't want Manning back necessarily, but the team may be in a position where they will have to choose between Brock Osweiler and Manning moving forward. Osweiler has been behind Manning for a few years and with the quarterback hitting the free agent market, he has some leverage. Osweiler looked solid in his starts for the Broncos this season and if he wants the opportunity to be a starter, he could opt to leave if the team brings back Manning for another season.
Manning could have options if he wants to return and the Broncos don't want to bring him back, as Schefter reports that the Rams could be interested in signing Manning for his final season. Schefter writes that the Rams have "had internal discussions" about bringing Manning to Los Angeles if he decides to play another season. The team is "monitoring the situation" and while a move like that is unlikely, Jeff Fisher has had praise for Manning in the past and the team desperately could use an upgrade at quarterback, even if Manning is a shell of his former self.
The Broncos have other matters to deal with this offseason as well, as Von Miller is heading towards free agency and is a major priority for the team. Miller has established himself as one of the best players in the league on defense and he should be in line for a big pay day. If the Broncos can't work out a deal with Miller, expect the team to use the franchise tag on him.
