Denver Broncos Will "Part Ways" With Peyton Manning, Even If He Doesn't Retire

The Denver Broncos are planning to part ways with quarterback Peyton Manning even if he decides to play again next season, according to FOX Sports' Alex Marvez, who says that the "Broncos are proceeding with contract negotiations with other players without counting Manning and his $19 million salary on their books for salary cap purposes."

There has been plenty of speculation that Manning, who will turn 40 in March, would retire following the season, but he has maintained that he hasn't made a decision about his future yet. However, the Denver Post's Woody Paige reports that Manning will retire.

Manning reportedly informed general manager John Elway during a meeting on Thursday that he would retire, which has set this plan in motion. Should Manning change his mind and decide he wants to return, he will be playing for another team next season.

The Los Angeles Rams are the team that has shown the most interest in Manning should that happen.

The Broncos are content to move forward with Brock Osweiler as their quarterback, who started seven games for the team this year, passing for 1,967 yards and 10 touchdowns to just six interceptions. Osweiler is a free agent this offseason, and the Broncos have made it a giant priority to re-sign him, as they have tabbed him as their quarterback of the future. 

That being said, Denver's negotiations with Osweiler have taken a backseat to their talks with Super Bowl MVP linebacker Von Miller, who is also a free agent. If they can't reach a long-term deal with Miller, they will use their franchise tag on him.

Manning passed for 2,249 yards, nine touchdowns, and a league-high 17 interceptions for the Broncos last season.

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