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Talk increases that Peyton Manning should take a pay cut

Reuters

Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning was second in the NFL with 39 touchdown passes last season, fourth in the NFL with 4,727 passing yards last season and fourth in the NFL with a 101.5 passer rating last season. Those don’t sound like the numbers of a player who needs to take a pay cut.

But there’s increasing talk that that’s exactly what Manning should do. Plenty of people have floated it as a possibility, and a Denver Post column gets right to the point with the headline, “Peyton Manning should take a pay cut.”

Manning’s $19 million base salary for 2015 becomes fully guaranteed if he’s still on the roster on March 9, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the Broncos are urging Manning to consider re-doing his deal so that he’s a little more affordable.

It also wouldn’t be a bad idea for Manning. After all, this is a man who has already made hundreds of millions of dollars in salary and endorsements in his life. How much more money does he really need? And if taking a pay cut makes it easier for the Broncos to keep free agent receiver Demaryius Thomas and free agent tight end Julius Thomas, isn’t that worth it for him? At this point in his life, Manning would surely trade $10 million for another Super Bowl ring. If reducing his salary to $9 million helps the Broncos win a Super Bowl, that might be a deal Manning is willing to make.

At the same time, it’s hard to go to a veteran who has accomplished everything Manning has accomplished and ask him to take less money than he’s contractually owed. It’s a delicate dance for the Broncos if they’re going to try to bring Manning back for less money.

The ball is now in the Broncos’ court, and John Elway seems to want Manning back with the Broncos. The question is whether Elway wants Manning back for less than $19 million, and whether Manning is prepared to take less than $19 million.

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157 Responses to “Talk increases that Peyton Manning should take a pay cut”
  1. radioactivechimp says: Feb 16, 2015 10:55 AM

    Peyton has all the leverage right now. Any talk of a pay cut, and he could just threaten to retire.

  2. idiotmillionaire says: Feb 16, 2015 10:55 AM

    As a Browns fan, if we had a QB like Peyton…I would pay him more than $19 million. You could put anyone around this guy and he’d make them better at what they do.

  3. cueghost says: Feb 16, 2015 10:56 AM

    If he really wants to win another title, and it’s not just about taking those last couple of passing records away from Favre, then this should be an absolute NO-BRAINER. It would be an excellent mark on his legacy, too, to show that he cares more about winning than squeezing every last dime that he can out of the Broncos. After all, Brady did and racked up another ring….. the blueprint is there, PFM.

  4. weepingjebus says: Feb 16, 2015 10:56 AM

    Cut his salary too much and you won’t be getting the same QB; those mystery European clinics are not cheap.

  5. cadera2014 says: Feb 16, 2015 10:57 AM

    Not that hard. Brady has taken way less to help field a better team and Peyton is no Brady….

  6. millarddjr says: Feb 16, 2015 10:57 AM

    Peyton will never take less than the $19m he is owed, he will only settle for less if he’s cut by the Broncos and has to find another team.

    This is the same player who asked for a “no franchise tag may ever be applied to me” clause during the strike / class action lawsuit to wring a huge contract out of the Colts, and then showed up to say thanks for the money, but I’m injured and can’t play.

    There is no I in team, but there is in mannIng

  7. smedleybumchuckle says: Feb 16, 2015 10:58 AM

    He’s all about the money and his individual records. There is no way he takes a pay cut…never has and never will. Sure Manning wants another ring, who doesn’t. It must be hard when the family gets together for family functions and he looks across the room and his little brother has 2 “fluke” rings and he has one, but that doesn’t change the fact that he has always been about himself and not the team.

  8. In Teddy We Trust says: Feb 16, 2015 10:58 AM

    It would be stupid to not take a pay cut if that’s the difference between keeping Thomas and Thomas or not. I think Manning is smart enough, however, to make sure the Broncos explain in great detail why they couldn’t keep those guys unless he takes a certain amount of a cut.

  9. NFL FAN 18 says: Feb 16, 2015 10:59 AM

    That would be awesome! Peyton should take 10 million or less! That would allow signing of the free agents and if Pot Roast walks can bid for someone else.
    Peyton you are coming back for a chance at the SB, so do the wise thing and take a 50% pay cut.

  10. crappygovernment says: Feb 16, 2015 10:59 AM

    Peyton Manning = Netanyahu = just go away already!

  11. themanfromtheblacklodge says: Feb 16, 2015 11:00 AM

    Is Peyton Manning a player who would put success before his own finances? Tom Brady is, and look what happened last season.

  12. Eagles in 2015 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:00 AM

    Never . . .
    You want one-of-the-Best – You pay for it.

    This would be total nonsense if teams can circumvent the salary structure.

    a. No player should ever take less, without the chance to become a FA.

    and

    b. If original team signs him , , 20% more than he walked away from.

    cutting and signing – this how a J.J. operates

  13. bonniebengal says: Feb 16, 2015 11:00 AM

    He doesn’t need the money. I bet he willingly takes a huge paycut in order to make sure there continue to be good players around him. I would bet he wants another ring more than he wants another few million.

  14. joetoronto says: Feb 16, 2015 11:01 AM

    Manning is as selfish as it gets, he’ll want every penny and he’s going to play this year one place or another.

    The man has no shame at all.

  15. sadsackashizz says: Feb 16, 2015 11:02 AM

    He needs to take a paycut. His legacy is hurting. They need to stack that team around him if they want a shot at another SB & they can’t do that with him making $19M.

  16. bmoreb says: Feb 16, 2015 11:05 AM

    Just throw in a “If you suck in the playoffs like you usually do, we get 5 mil back” clause.

  17. socalcharger says: Feb 16, 2015 11:06 AM

    Manning’s not winning another Super Bowl no matter where he plays. If he wants to own a team like MJ someday, he’ll need all the money he deserves for his level of performance, which is elite. It’s not like his wife is pulling bank like Giselle either.

  18. saundman2000 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:06 AM

    How much less would they pay him though?

    It’s not up to Peyton Manning to solve the Bronco’s salary cap issues all by himself. If they really want to free cap room, they are going to need to have multiple players take a haircut or let some of them go.

    If I were Peyton, I would want to be involved in the overall monetary strategy at this point. In other words, he should be able to say, Hey, I’m willing to take $3,000,00 less. So what does that get me? Where else are people making sacrifices here? …….and that paycheck for less money had better have a golden guarantee with it.

  19. glac1 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:06 AM

    If denver is serious about taking the next step they need to part ways with Manning.

  20. rcosborne59 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:06 AM

    John Elway: Peyton we would like you to take a pay cut.

    Peyton Manning: How much experience does my back up have?

  21. thelastwordyaheard says: Feb 16, 2015 11:06 AM

    it’s highly unlikely that the Manning we saw at the end of the season was the “real” Manning ..there’s just no way his play drops off a cliff like that from the first 3/4 of the season unless the quad injury was really affecting him ..he can still play at a relatively high level when healthy, the question at this point is whether his body can reasonably be expected to make it through a full regular season schedule and potential playoff games without him sustaining another injury like last season ..my guess would be that the answer is no

  22. crappygovernment says: Feb 16, 2015 11:06 AM

    Peyton could have gone to SF in free agency in 2012 if he truly wanted to win a SB. He went to DEN to displace Christian QB hero, Tim Tebow! SF had/has way more roster talent!

  23. iamapatsfan says: Feb 16, 2015 11:06 AM

    does he want another ring? He’ll need to pull a Brady.

  24. pastabelly says: Feb 16, 2015 11:07 AM

    Manning also earns $12 million (that was for 2014) in endorsement deals. He can probably afford to take $2 or $3 million less so the team can afford to keep Julius Thomas or some other players. This has nothing to do with Tom Brady and everything to do with helping out the team. $19 + $12 or $31M is just incredible compensation.

  25. seatownballers says: Feb 16, 2015 11:08 AM

    Well Elway was the one that flew him and begged him to play for this inflated contract. And papa manning loves his money

  26. isithockeyseasonyet says: Feb 16, 2015 11:09 AM

    A $10 million pay cut? I’m sorry but im calling shenanigans on that, I could see a slight one to help them out with some wiggle room but you think he’s gonna take less than 50%? No no no

  27. JaminJake says: Feb 16, 2015 11:10 AM

    THEY NEED TO GET MIKE IUPATI!

  28. noteamforlosangeles says: Feb 16, 2015 11:11 AM

    Get all the money you can, Peyton…

    Signed,

    Drew Brees and Joe Flacco

  29. thejohnsmith1122 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:11 AM

    If Manning really wants both his WR and TE back, he should take a paycut only if the Broncos work out their deals first or can guarantee a signed deal if Manning does take a cut.

  30. thereisalwaysnextyear says: Feb 16, 2015 11:13 AM

    Maybe Elway should cut Manning in on some of the sweetheart car dealership deals he got when he was playing. Or just tell Manning he will hire him year after next as an advisor/coach for $10m after taking $10m pay cut this year to see what role he wants to take. Done and done.

  31. Wineshard says: Feb 16, 2015 11:14 AM

    He is crunching the numbers and weighing his options.

    If he gets cut can he sign somewhere else and get his money and still have a chance at a ring?

    As he should. That’s what teams do. No loyalty.

  32. boltshawks says: Feb 16, 2015 11:14 AM

    It has to be difficult for the Broncos. With a new coach, new offense – I’m sure they would prefer he just retire. Who needs an above average, $19M QB for 1 year? It’s waste of a year

  33. meximyke says: Feb 16, 2015 11:17 AM

    No way he should take a pay cut!!!! Let’s look at what other teams are paying for their QB’s, in his price range, to name a few! Manning is way Superior to anyone on this list!
    Kraperneck $19M (What a joke)
    Cutler $18M
    Romo $18M
    Stafford $17.6M
    Smith $17M
    Palmer $16.5M
    Dalton $16M
    Rivers $15M
    Bradford $13M

  34. Iknowitall says: Feb 16, 2015 11:17 AM

    The problem is that Manning will not get another Super Bowl ring.
    Thee Kansas City Chiefs are retaking the AFC West this year and will own it for the rest of the decade. Andy Reid is assembling a dynasty tdam

  35. tedmurph says: Feb 16, 2015 11:18 AM

    I think Manning has every right to say no. 19 mil makes him the 5th highest pd QB in the NFL. He’s still that, he put up the numbers. GBedard, one of the best FB writers out there, watched film of every Manning pass last yr and was convinced it was injuries, not age drop off that derailed Manning at the end of the year. The Broncos have a lot of guys to sign, but with 25-30 mil under the cap, even with PM on the books, they should be able to keep the players they want and still pick up a few other pieces. I don’t buy they need Manning to take a cut to get that done. Neither should Manning.

  36. utahgetme2 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:20 AM

    It’s always somewhat amusing to read about some people telling others what to do with their money, particularly when that advice is to take less…I wonder how many offering such counsel regularly go to their respective employer and voluntarily take a pay cut themselves…

  37. crappygovernment says: Feb 16, 2015 11:20 AM

    DEN was 3 wins away from a SB championship last season. Don’t pretend like they were on the SB doorstep! It’s only gonna get worse!

  38. solo681 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:20 AM

    BEST MOVE EVER

    Broncos should trade PEYTON to the GIANTS for ELI. This way maybe Peyton can finally beat Brady in the Super Bowl and declare himself as BEST EVER.

    LOL

  39. theanalyticalkid says: Feb 16, 2015 11:22 AM

    He should agree to a paycut only if they keep the Thomases.

    Brady took one years back and they screwed him by letting their WRs go and not replacing them with good ones.

  40. harrisonhits2 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:24 AM

    Because the 200 mil+ he’s already made isn’t enough SMH

    I think the real issue is that at this point his body can’t hold up to a full season. It was clear late in the year and the playoffs that he lost arm strength and had a lot of trouble making certain throws.

    Whether that was because of a leg injury, the previous neck injury, a combo thereof doesn’t matter. His stats are great but where did that get them in the playoffs ? One and done.

    If they manage him better during the first 12 games, throw less run a lot more then maybe he’ll still have good arm strength in the playoffs. That’s what any team he plays on this season needs to do, be it the Donks or another team.

  41. jpk6044 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:26 AM

    Ring….ring….ring….

    Rex Grossman: “Hello?”
    Peyton Manning: “Rex! Hey Rexy, it’s your old buddy Peyton Manning!”
    RG (cringing): “Oh, hello Peyton.”
    PM: “Geez Rex, it’s been too long, too long, y’know?”
    RG: “Um, yeah, uh Peyton I have to–”
    PM: “Rex I just wanted to call and thank you for being the Bears quarterback in 2006 – it really means a lot to me.”
    RG: “Yeah Peyton, you don’t need to keep doing this. I mean, you’ve called so many times that I–”
    PM: “It was really great! Really REALLY great that you were quarterbacking the Bears in 2006!!! Especially during the Super Bowl – especially that!!! Awesome man!”
    RG: click
    PM: “Rex? Rexy?”

  42. tjsbmurphy says: Feb 16, 2015 11:28 AM

    He’s had four bad games due to an injury in three years and they want him to cut his salary?

  43. granadafan says: Feb 16, 2015 11:29 AM

    How much is an elite QB worth to teams? Take a quick look at teams who DON’T have an elite or even good QB and their records: Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, Tennessee, Texas, Jets, Buffalo, etc. Manning has them over a barrell with all the leverage and everyone knows it, especially Elway.

  44. wrlegrand says: Feb 16, 2015 11:29 AM

    It is pretty funny for people to just say he should take $10 million less. What is $10 million to him?

    Honestly, would any of us just take $10 million less because it is not that big of a deal? Personally I would not.

  45. patsfan112 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:29 AM

    Peyton NEEDS to take a pay cut. His best years are behind him and he is no longer worth $19 million. In fact, if anyone should be earning $19 million in this league it’s Brady, as he just won his fourth SB. But he’s not, because he understands how important it is to keep a SB caliber team together. Peyton should take a cue from Brady. It is not like he’s hurting in money. If he refuses he is just being selfish.

  46. crappygovernment says: Feb 16, 2015 11:29 AM

    What is the appeal of a greedy, dopey, no charisma, perennial choker anyway? I just don’t understand. The point of our lives in not to make that loser Peyton Manning feel good about himself!

  47. nelly837 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:32 AM

    Everyone saying Manning should take a cut needs to know in order to restructure his contract you can’t just say hey I’ll take less money. If they restructure his contract to save cap space then they have to extend the number of years on his contract and there is no way the Donks are doing that.

  48. realitylooms says: Feb 16, 2015 11:32 AM

    There is talk and he is even THINKING about NOT taking a pay cut??????? He needs to for the team to sign players they have, sign free agents, and stay under the salary cap. Paying him $19 million in a last year when they need to begin to prepare for rebuilding when he is gone is just out. He may believe that is what he must be paid and that won’t work. If he doesn’t take a 50% pay cut to help build a good team around him, he is being stupid for his own health and I would tell him to hit the road.

  49. redrew says: Feb 16, 2015 11:34 AM

    Daddy must be consulted first. History is clear when examining the Mannings……it’s always a me first mentality and nobody dictates terms to a Manning.
    Then there is the greatest of all time Tom Brady who has had the privilege of working with a total of 2 #1 draft picks on offense taken by NE over 14 years. Never has a QB done so much with fewer premium assets. Unlike Peyton who has done so little in the playoffs with so many #1’s on offense to make him appear better. Has a QB ever been so propped up than PayMeATon

  50. milehirow39 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:36 AM

    Myth:

    Peyton has all the leverage right now. Any talk of a pay cut, and he could just threaten to retire.
    ____________________________________
    Truth:

    As a Browns fan, if we had a QB like Peyton…I would pay him more than $19 million. You could put anyone around this guy and he’d make them better at what they do.
    ____________________________________
    Myth:

    Not that hard. Brady has taken way less to help field a better team and Peyton is no Brady….
    ____________________________________

    There will be no cut in pay. Tom Brady “deferred” his money, which most likely is what Peyton will do. Makes them seem heroic (see Brady) but all the money eventually goes to them. Usually through signing bonus or roster bonus.

    The other non truth–Denver doesn’t really need Peyton to do this. The will have 50 Million in cap space without it. So–that too is a “myth.” This is just a way to see if Peyton is willing to play ball with the Broncos.

  51. revren10 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:36 AM

    Peyton will never be half the QB Brady is.

  52. chawk12thman says: Feb 16, 2015 11:37 AM

    Restructure; sure. Pay Cut; No.

  53. derpadeederpjetsyjet says: Feb 16, 2015 11:37 AM

    Its not just about getting a ring. If he wants to pad his stats this yr he’s gonna have to take a paycut to free up capspace so old horseface can resign the Thomas’s…

  54. randomguy9999 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:37 AM

    how much more money does he need anyway?

    ———————————————————–

    since when has that had anything at all to do with an NFL player negotiation?

    saying he should have his pay cut is ridiculous with his performance level

    saying the team might ask very nicely to restructure and add a couple of years to his contract is a passable idea

    but if they don’t ask really nicely, he’ll just simply get another monster contract from another team… no problem… probably 20 of the teams would give him $100m over 5 years.

    then the Broncos would have to take the next Tebow or whatever in line in the draft… and that would be very painful

  55. grimreaper12 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:38 AM

    tom brady is the greatest QB ever.
    manning is a playoff choke artist.

  56. ragnarthemagnificent says: Feb 16, 2015 11:38 AM

    Peyton, your legacy will always be the guy who couldn’t get it done. 2014 was your last chance. Thats it. There is no amount of pizza’s, insurance or cable tv commercials that will change that. You’ll never win another SB. Let it go, let it go.

  57. brohamma says: Feb 16, 2015 11:38 AM

    Kubiak has never allowed his quarterbacks to make changes at the line like Manning has been used to, and this is what is ultimately going to make the whole discussion of a “pay cut” moot. Manning, after all these years of calling the shots by reading defenses, is NOT going to change his career approach to running an offense for one year.

    Kubiak passed on adding Manning while in Houston a couple years ago; don’t think that Archie is going to let his son forget about that.

  58. Spencer says: Feb 16, 2015 11:38 AM

    I don’t think of Manning as a selfish player. He will take the pay cut if they ask him to.

  59. bigdawg24 says: Feb 16, 2015 11:43 AM

    At least the Broncos aren’t paying that kind of $$ for Alex Smith, ARGHHHH!!!

  60. cantbeatlogic says: Feb 16, 2015 11:45 AM

    A no-brainer for Peyton. But depends on whether he wants to win it all or be another regular season stats monster.
    Wish there were truly worthy QBs as even mediocre QBs can get paid amazing money. Cutler, Bradford and Palmer have higher 2015 cap hits than Brady.

    1 Tony Romo $27,773,000
    2 Drew Brees $26,400,000
    3 Peyton Manning $21,500,000
    4 Eli Manning $19,750,000
    5 Matt Ryan $19,500,000
    6 Ben Roethlisberger $18,395,000
    7 Aaron Rodgers $18,250,000
    8 Matthew Stafford $17,721,250
    9 Philip Rivers $17,416,668
    10 Sam Bradford $16,580,000
    11 Jay Cutler $16,500,000
    12 Alex Smith $15,600,000
    13 Colin Kaepernick $15,265,753
    14 Cam Newton $14,666,666
    15 Joe Flacco $14,550,000
    16 Carson Palmer $14,500,000
    17 Tom Brady $14,000,000

  61. newjerseygiants says: Feb 16, 2015 11:46 AM

    Give him a raise and pay his taxes too. The man’s got to provide for his family.

  62. qbarrel says: Feb 16, 2015 11:48 AM

    Just curious – has any team ever won a SB during a year in which they had a cap hit the size of Manning’s?

  63. roadbiscuit says: Feb 16, 2015 11:50 AM

    >Brady has taken way less to help field a better team

    Let’s put this myth to death right now. Brady got a $3M raise to restructure.

  64. wizardofgronk says: Feb 16, 2015 11:51 AM

    If I were Elway I would let Pay-me know that he wont be making $19 mil next year Denver and the ball is in his court.

    It would be absolute insanity for Elway/Denver to lose DT and/or JT in exchange for 1 year of Manning. That is mortgaging the future, and for what? A 1 and done? The roster is good enough for Osweiler to do that and it will cost $18 mil less

  65. broncosfannva says: Feb 16, 2015 11:53 AM

    Peyton Manning has been one of the best QB’s in football throughout his career, that said he has earned the right to be paid top QB money period! Those of you that think Brady took a pay cut are sadly mistaken! His contract was restructured, meaning he will still get most of the money from the original contract! With Manning, I think his deal and how it’s written will be very difficult to restructure for a pay cut. Extend? I don’t see him playing more than the 2 years left on his current contract. Maybe void current contract and start fresh? I guess it’s possible. I do agree though, a pay cut would benefit the Broncos. How do you ask someone who has accomplished what PFM has accomplished to take a pay cut though? I guess we will see in the coming weeks!

  66. FoozieGrooler says: Feb 16, 2015 11:53 AM

    The Patriots are still cheaters.
    No class, no honor, no integrity.
    That’s the real Patriots Way

  67. thingamajig says: Feb 16, 2015 11:59 AM

    If it’s worth 10 million for Manning to go to the Super Bowl how much is it worth for Elway and the Broncos.

    Easy solution: Manning takes a 10 mil pay cut then next year after Manning retires Elway and the Broncos buy a large pizza from Manning for 10 mil.

  68. nflrulebook says: Feb 16, 2015 12:04 PM

    Simple. Pay Mr. October $1 million for every TD pass after November 1. That leaves $3 million in likely to be earned bonuses for cap reasons.

  69. trubroncfan07 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:07 PM

    Peyton is no where worth 20 mil at this point. If he really wants to win he should restructure and give the Broncos more cap room to out and build the line up for him. Die hard Broncos fan for 35 years, and I okay with Denver cutting him and moving on if he does not restructure.

  70. thetruthcampaign says: Feb 16, 2015 12:09 PM

    That would give Peyton a chance to unseat Elway as the oldest QB to win a Super Bowl. Worth it to me.

  71. justintuckrule says: Feb 16, 2015 12:12 PM

    Like to see any one of you agree to a TEN MILLION DOLLAR income reduction. Smarten up.

  72. swagger52 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:14 PM

    Peyton is a best QB ever and he doesn’t cheat. For fans every where…pay the man.

  73. papagambino says: Feb 16, 2015 12:15 PM

    It’s the least he could do

    Tom Brady is making $7 million.

  74. amaf21 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:18 PM

    broncos better be careful. piss off payton and your new starting qb is going to be brock.

  75. rjpats says: Feb 16, 2015 12:19 PM

    Normally, I like the idea of an aging star taking less to allow the team to load up for a championship, but he’d need to take a huge cut just to bring back the team that wasn’t even close to good enough last year. Peyton should just take the money.

  76. miamisaint3255 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:21 PM

    sure, the Broncos fans want Peyton to take a pay cut because it would mean more cap space. There is no way he should take a pay cut. It’s laughable t think otherwise. Restructuring is ok, but he doesn’t have more than a year or two left, so not easy to do.

  77. bobsagetspiercedc0ck says: Feb 16, 2015 12:21 PM

    1. It is easy to give back 5-10 million of SOMEONE ELSE’S money, isn’t it?

    2. Pats fans, not every article about football is about the Pats or Tom Brady.

  78. lolatpatshaters says: Feb 16, 2015 12:24 PM

    Tom Brady: .714 playoff winning percentage as a starter

    Tim Tebow: .500

    Peyton Manning .458

    #wellheis
    #justsayin

  79. swagger52 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:26 PM

    If Manning is supposed to except a pay cut, what about Brady. Brady needs to save money to pay for Edelman and Gronkowski. Brady can only throw short passes over the middle. Peyton is better in all categories except cheating. However, how do you pay extra for the cheating that the Patriots can get away with because they are in New England?

  80. dryzzt23 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:27 PM

    De Smith and the NFLPA would be 100% AGAINST a pay cut for Manning.
    This is because the result would be less union dues that Manning would pay, and it would reduce the average compensation for QBs, which could then be used as a negotiation tactic that would favor NFL teams.
    It’s not a matter of ” Manning can afford to take a pay cut blah blah”. Let’s not follow the Marxist philosophy of “From each based on their ability, to each based on their need”.

    Manning IS worth $19 million to the Broncos, that is his current market value. Maybe Manning would take a pay cut in exchange for ownership shares in the Broncos.

  81. sportnut92 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:28 PM

    Let’s put it in perspective if we will.

    if Tom Brady was due 21.5 Mil next year, Brady would be a Houston Texan.

  82. roadbiscuit says: Feb 16, 2015 12:29 PM

    Brady gets $45M *guaranteed* even if he doesn’t play another down for the Pats. This is a fact.

  83. skintite72 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:29 PM

    Some of you people making these absurd comments sound as though you’re still drunk from last Saturday!!! I am so glad that you’re not the ones with the checkbook trying to negotiate.

    Yeah, if Manning wants one last shot at making it back to the SB, he’s gonna have to take a pay cut. But to ask him to take a 50% pay cut to do it is not only unfair, but amazingly asinine!!! The guy is STILL one of the best QB’s in the league and yet, so many people are blinded by their own stupidity that they can’t grasp the fact that just because he’s not #1 every single year, then he should just hang up his pads. If that’s the case, then every single QB who doesn’t make it the SB and win should follow suit. Are you grasping at how that stupid that sounds?

  84. kissmysandwich says: Feb 16, 2015 12:30 PM

    It’s not a delicate dance. You simply tell pizza man that he needs to take less cash if he wants to play on a good team. Option 2 is he can be greedy and play his last season with mediocre talent around him or get cut and hope for the best on a different team.

  85. lolatpatshaters says: Feb 16, 2015 12:31 PM

    I bet Brock Osweiler could have a better w-l pct in the playoffs than .458

    So could Tebow. Oh wait that’s right he does.

    Why DID the Broncos get rid of Tebow again?

    #tebowjustwins
    #shouldhavekeptTebow
    #tebowmagic

  86. tigerlilac says: Feb 16, 2015 12:31 PM

    Have you guys asked the Manning family consigliere (PFT’s term, not mine) Chris Mortensen, or is he too busy making stories up about the Patriots?

  87. tigerlilac says: Feb 16, 2015 12:34 PM

    “Maybe Manning would take a pay cut in exchange for ownership shares in the Broncos.”

    The FMV of any compensation would be charged against the cap, including “ownership shares”.

  88. skintite72 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:36 PM

    Oh and by the way, Denver lost to the Colts because the entire Broncos team got outplayed and out-coached. It’s not Manning’s fault that he can’t win a game all by himself. And for all you Pats fans out there with your huge nut-crushes on Brady, was it Brady who intercepted that ball at the end of the game?

  89. nsawins says: Feb 16, 2015 12:37 PM

    Cut that meat!

  90. raideralex99 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:37 PM

    Without Manning … Broncos don’t make the playoffs.
    Is that worth $9 million?
    If the Bills had Peyton … they would win the AFC east division.
    Maybe the Broncos should ask the Pats to pay part of his salary.

  91. Shinnbone says: Feb 16, 2015 12:37 PM

    I hope he doesn’t the owner agreed to the contract it’s time they honor it.

    Everybody is in favor when a player who is “under paid & contract” holds out for more money, but if you are under contract and the deal is in the players favor…the player should give some money back.

    This is why NFL paper contracts are a joke. It’s an easy solution for Elway and the Broncos if you don’t want to pay the contract you and said player agreed too…release him.

  92. riverhorsey says: Feb 16, 2015 12:38 PM

    Peyton will voluntarily take a pay cut if that’s what it takes to win another SB. The guy is a team player.

  93. bigbluefan1 says: Feb 16, 2015 12:40 PM

    I have to say you folks crack me up sure 19 Mil is to much but so are 99.999% of players pay checks Why should the other players get a raise ?

    Payton will not get another ring as this is Eli’s year.

    I do wonder if your boss came in and said look to keep he business running I have to give you a 50% cut in pay I am sure you would all say what ever is best for the business

  94. lolatpatshaters says: Feb 16, 2015 12:42 PM

    Let’s ask the Seahawks who’s better.

    Brady’s team 28 Seahawks 24
    Seahawks 43 Peyton Manning’s team 8

    The end.

  95. kissbillsrings says: Feb 16, 2015 12:57 PM

    He’ll do it & come off as the ultimate team player & that’s how the press will spin it… Reality is he’s a self serving horray for me person that would play for anything just to get Favres records so he can lay personal claim to those achievements….. As he knows he’s known as Mr. 1 & done in the post season & needs something for the Manning apologists to hang their hat on & thump their chest about when talks start up about who’s the best QB when mentioned with Brady….
    No matter how many personal records he achieves he’ll never be the QB Brady is!!!!
    Brady>>>> Manning & always will be!!!
    Peyton will get those personal records then fold like a lawn chair come post season while Brady heads on to # 5!!!!

  96. wishingtonredslur says: Feb 16, 2015 12:58 PM

    So how about he takes 9 million at the start and if, IF, they win the bowl that will be it but if they don’t then he gets 10 million for putting up with Thomas averaging 6 drops per playoff game.

  97. patswhatsup says: Feb 16, 2015 1:01 PM

    utahgetme2 says:
    Feb 16, 2015 11:20 AM
    It’s always somewhat amusing to read about some people telling others what to do with their money, particularly when that advice is to take less…I wonder how many offering such counsel regularly go to their respective employer and voluntarily take a pay cut themselves…

    _________________________________________

    If I’ve already made over 200M just for the playing part of football, I’d be ok with givingu p 5% of that for another championship. Let’s face it, if either Demarius or Julius walk, it’s going to be a big deal.

  98. t81o says: Feb 16, 2015 1:11 PM

    OK, i’m no Manning fan, and would def take Brady over Manning 10 out of 10 times. But it’s unfair to compare the two situations and say that Brady is better because he’s taking a paay cut that Manning doesn’t. First of all, Brady has Giselle. Not that either QB should ever have to worry about $ for the rest of their lives, but Brady having Giselle bring in more $ than he does helps dramatically. We act like Brady is a saint for not taking more $ from the Pats, but the dude lives an amazing life. His Cali home is beautiful, and he’s got (well, it at least appears to be) an amazing family (wife, kids, etc). Even the situation with his ex is better than one could imagine (givin the circumstances). Second, haven’t the reports of Brady’s paycuts been exaggerated? I thought it was just that the payments were spread out over more time so that the team could use more $ each yr to spend on other players.

    It’s just crazy to me the way we compare the qbs. Clearly, Brady is a better qb than manning (it’s impossible to argue he hasn’t had a better career)…and he lives a life that most of us would dream of. But who cares if a dude is willing to take a pay cut. No matter what your career is, your #1 priority is your family and that legacy, not your job’s legacy (in this case, their nfl career legacy). It would be insane for a player not to try to get the most he can, while he can. If you could set your family up financially for generations, then you should (yes, they next generation or two might already be set, but why limit it to two generations if you can set up 4-5 of them).

  99. dynastyposeiden says: Feb 16, 2015 1:14 PM

    just make him a double or nothing offer
    win the super bowl 30 million not win the super bowl 15 million……. I also laugh at people saying he should take a voluntary cut because he has made so much $ in the past ……..perhaps the owners should give back half of the ticket revenue since they have made so much money in the past …

  100. tigerlilac says: Feb 16, 2015 1:15 PM

    For you guys that are trashing Peyton Manning with the sub .500 playoff record, don’t forget that he beat Rex Grossman head to head in the Super Bowl.

  101. jimpt52 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:16 PM

    why do the owners/teams offer contracts when they know that they will expect the players to take a cut within a couples of years?
    why do the players accept this type of dealing?
    why isn’t a contract a contract?

  102. johnodocks says: Feb 16, 2015 1:23 PM

    If they name Peyton player-coach (offensive coordinator) can they say that half his salary is for coaching so they don’t have to count that towards the salary cap? With Kubiak as head coach and Peyton not needing an OC anyway, the OC position in Denver is a waste. If Brady wasn’t taking in half of Giselle’s income, allowing him to take less than he deserves, you know that Belichick would be looking for loopholes like this to pay his QB.

  103. fringetastic says: Feb 16, 2015 1:29 PM

    Trade $10m for a super bowl win? That’s insane. Winning SB’s has got to be great and a personal achievement and vindication of all the blood, sweat and tears that goes into it, but even for a multi-millionaire, TEN MILLION dollars is a lot of money.

    He should restructure to a two year deal, maybe take a little less, with the understanding that he’ll retire after the season, just to spread out the hit.

  104. a072455 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:30 PM

    wagger52 says: Brady can only throw short passes over the middle.
    ======== yeah, but the guy with the big arm is a one and done while the guy who couldn’t throw them long has 4 rings. Just ask Richard Sherman how many rings Tom has, he will tell you.

    Skintit72-difference with the Pats, it’s always been TEAM first.

    To the rest of you bozos, TB could have demanded $20 plus Million when he was due his first big contract, he have always taken less to sign the likes of Dillion, Moss, etc…..

  105. jamesd1234 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:32 PM

    Wow you’re mighty generous with Peyton’s salary. Having him take a 10 million dollar pay cut.

    The fact is he has a contract it’s either pay him 19 million or cut him. If the Broncos don’t think he’s worth it they are free to cut him and Peyton can test the free market and see if he can get for his services. I don’t think it will be 19 million, but it would be close to that. I don’t think it’s worth blowing up the team and losing Peyton in order for the Broncos to save a million or two.

    It’s not up to Peyton to take less so wide recievers can get top dollar. It’s up to the Broncos to draft well and get the best free agents their budget can afford.

  106. piratehookerfrombootybay says: Feb 16, 2015 1:37 PM

    He doesn’t need the money? say that to the billionaires in the world. Tell that one owner (the Microsoft guy) to give up 10 billion to make the world a better place. 1 billion is plenty right?

  107. kcflake says: Feb 16, 2015 1:38 PM

    Ummmm No! As a Chiefs Fan, I want the Broncos to have to pay Peyton every cent they owe him, and have it count against their salary cap too.

  108. spuds2420 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:42 PM

    Not only should he take a pay cut, he should give some money back.

    All that talent around him and nothing.

  109. zeke2517 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:43 PM

    “At this point in his life, Manning would surely trade $10 million for another Super Bowl ring.”

    You sure?

  110. j0esixpack says: Feb 16, 2015 1:43 PM

    I’m sure the Ravens and Ravens fans are still patting themselves on the back for that “team friendly” contract they signed Flacco to

    Next year’s cap hit? $28.5 million – cheap compared to 2017’s $31 million

  111. fetts81 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:44 PM

    Brady restructured his deal twice now. Because he wants to win at all costs. Brady will make 7 mil this year… And it’s not guaranteed…. That’s the difference between him and manning and that’ll never change

  112. nightrain42 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:46 PM

    Why shld he take a pay cut? All that’s going to do is make Pat Bowlen richer. That’s what gets lost in all this take less…you make the rich richer….and you sabotage your fellow players by taking less.

  113. gwats1957 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:46 PM

    Stay or go, it doesn’t matter… the Broncos are a second- tier team at best……..

  114. nightrain42 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:47 PM

    cadera2014…actually he didn’t take less…when it’s all said and done he will hve a $3 million raise…he just structured it to better fit the team.

  115. icar2967 says: Feb 16, 2015 1:52 PM

    There’s an easy solution. Structure the contract to read:
    1. Don’t make the playoffs- $7 million
    2. Playoffs one and done- $10 million
    3. Make the Superbowl- $15 million
    4. Win the Superbowl- $19 million

    What’s so hard about that?

  116. dretwann says: Feb 16, 2015 1:55 PM

    I try not to make a habit of toying around in another man’s wallet. I suggest you do the same. First and foremost, this is a business and business is about maximizing revenue. Emotion has no place in it and your suggestion is based in emotion.

  117. bosb88 says: Feb 16, 2015 2:00 PM

    He can set all of the passing records he wants – his playoff record will still be remembered and mentioned anytime you talk about how good of a QB Manning was.

  118. FreewayJim says: Feb 16, 2015 2:01 PM

    WWTB12 Do?

  119. csb28 says: Feb 16, 2015 2:01 PM

    skintite72 says:
    Feb 16, 2015 12:36 PM
    Oh and by the way, Denver lost to the Colts because the entire Broncos team got outplayed and out-coached. It’s not Manning’s fault that he can’t win a game all by himself. And for all you Pats fans out there with your huge nut-crushes on Brady, was it Brady who intercepted that ball at the end of the game?

    No but it was Brady who was 13 of 15 for 124 yards in the fourth quarter against one of the best defenses in the NFL. If you can’t give him credit you are not a real football fan but just a tad bit jealous.

  120. greengoldandbold says: Feb 16, 2015 2:05 PM

    cadera2014 says:
    Feb 16, 2015 10:57 AM
    Not that hard. Brady has taken way less to help field a better team and Peyton is no Brady….
    —————————————————————————–
    Brady restructured his deal so it helped N.E. with the salary cap but in reality, He basically took a $36 million upfront bonus to reduce his salary cap number through 2017.
    Now you tell me Tom Brady took a pay cut ?? You can’t.

  121. 2001asterisk2003asterisk2004asterisk2014asterisk says: Feb 16, 2015 2:09 PM

    Imagine if this guy played for a coach / ownership who broke the rules and cheated like the Pats – He’d have a championship every year of his pro career.

    ****

  122. pongonfl says: Feb 16, 2015 2:17 PM

    Hey Peyton, take a pay cut so we can keep the guys you are making look good now instead of bringing in another generation of guys for you to make look good.

  123. finsguy says: Feb 16, 2015 2:24 PM

    It’s true that there is no “I” in “Team”, but there is a “Me” in “Team”, which pretty much accomplishes the same thing.

  124. truths4all says: Feb 16, 2015 2:27 PM

    if you pay manning, you most likely get to the playoffs and have a chance for the super bowl

    if you go with osweiller, you most likely miss the playoffs

    pay and play in the playoffs

    save and sit at home as osweiller developes for the future.

    its a no brainer, pay manning

  125. denverdave3 says: Feb 16, 2015 2:38 PM

    “How much more money does he really need?”

    Don’t look now but your political leanings are showing.

  126. lolo376 says: Feb 16, 2015 2:43 PM

    No matter the pay cut, he’ll never win another one

  127. malab377 says: Feb 16, 2015 2:50 PM

    2013
    Julius Thomas : 788 yards, 12 TDs
    Demaryius Thomas : 1430 yards, 14 TDs

    2014
    Julius Thomas : 489 yards, 12 TDs
    Demaryius Thomas : 1619 yards, 11 TDs

    That’s 40.5% of his passing yards and 47% of his TD passes in 2013 and 45% of his passing yards and 59% of his TD passes in 2014.

    The numbers are going up, Manning can’t afford to play without them.

  128. kingpel says: Feb 16, 2015 2:50 PM

    Julius Thomas is not worth big money. The Broncos could draft a talented tight end and with Manning the numbers would be comparable. Demaryius Thomas on the other hand is a keeper.

  129. kenmasters34 says: Feb 16, 2015 2:55 PM

    Why should Manning take a paycut to stay with the Broncos? With or Without Manning, the Broncos are further away from a Superbowl than they were last year.

    Make the broncos pay the $19 million, or find a team that’s “Closer” to a Superbowl.

  130. whywerule says: Feb 16, 2015 3:00 PM

    icar2967 says:
    Feb 16, 2015 1:52 PM

    There’s an easy solution. Structure the contract to read:
    1. Don’t make the playoffs- $7 million
    2. Playoffs one and done- $10 million
    3. Make the Superbowl- $15 million
    4. Win the Superbowl- $19 million

    That is actually a pretty good idea but how would that impact the salary cap for this year? Is the cap hit just $7 million as the starting guarantee and then any additional playoff “salary” gets counted against next year’s cap?

  131. skawh says: Feb 16, 2015 3:09 PM

    Peyton says “not a cent!” How’s about all you who’ve never had a college career much less a pro career take your pay cut first before demanding someone else give up their money.

    Crickets…just as I thought. What losers!

  132. thatstinks says: Feb 16, 2015 3:10 PM

    The Broncos have alot of FA’s who will get paid by someone . I know I will get hammered for typing this but in reality the perfect time to start rebuilding is now . No way Denver will be better than last year .

    The current Bronco window is shut . It happens .

  133. obsession55 says: Feb 16, 2015 3:37 PM

    A paycut??? Not a chance. He never took one in Indy, back when he had a legit chance at winning some titles if the team had some cap room to work with…so why would he take one now?

  134. patsfan1820 says: Feb 16, 2015 3:54 PM

    Peyton Manning will never take a pay cut or restructure that’s not what he does. Peyton is a great qb but he’s mostly about personal stats and money not team wins. The Broncos time to win a title is gone and as much as I want to see Manning back in the NFL I fear that he won’t be nearly as good. Oh and swagger52 it’s the greatest qb not a greatest and no Peyton Manning isn’t even the best qb in the league right now that goes to either Rodgers or Brady.

  135. tubiz4u says: Feb 16, 2015 3:54 PM

    He did re-structure his contract a couple of times with the Colts. Google it!!

  136. raideralex99 says: Feb 16, 2015 3:56 PM

    For all those morons who want Peyton to take a pay cut … tomorrow when you go to work tell your boss you will take a 50% pay cut so your company can win the award for the best company.

  137. cmc4cvn says: Feb 16, 2015 3:56 PM

    Whatever the Broncos do I will always enjoy watching Tom Brady go against Payton Manning. Two greats of their positions, coming from two different paths to the NFL. Both are Super Bowl champions and both are class acts. I love football and the excitement/anxiety/nervousness of a big game and when these two meet it is always a donnie brooker. I respect all of you for the passion you have for your teams(it’s awesome!) but for me it’s the old guys Brady and Manning that are the classic matchup.

  138. whybotherifeverythinggetscensored says: Feb 16, 2015 4:04 PM

    Brady’s contract per the links PFT provides every time they mention a player.

    2/25/2013: Signed a five-year, $60 million contract. The deal is fully guaranteed, including $30 million in signing bonus payments scattered over the first three years. 2015: $7 million, 2016: $8 million, 2017: $9 million, 2018: Free Agent

    Brady did not defer anything, and even if he did “get a $3M raise”, he still makes about $15M less than the open market would pay him. Lastly, if Brady did not play another down, he would be due $24M, not $45M.

  139. NFL FAN 18 says: Feb 16, 2015 4:05 PM

    Highest amout in the contract counts towards cap (Because it is considered incentives). So 19 million would count against the cap. Although Pat Bowen might be saving money, it won’t accomplish the caps savings.

  140. dumbaseinstien says: Feb 16, 2015 4:10 PM

    The absence of real news has left the media pundits delusional. Let’s regroup in 5 months to see who was right. I put my wager on…wait for it…NO WAY P. Manning takes a $10 Million pay cut. But hey, pigs could start to fly & the equator could freeze over. But I would guess, like this suggestion, neither will happen anytime soon!

  141. TheWizard says: Feb 16, 2015 4:25 PM

    Just an opinion, but I think this incarnation of the Broncos window has closed.

    I hope they pay him as much as possible to hasten the demise.

  142. 1historian says: Feb 16, 2015 4:34 PM

    Regular season stats mean NOTHING. How about Tom Brady’s 2007 stats? Think he remembers that season happily?

    Elway should give him the choice – take a cut or take a walk.

  143. greengoldandbold says: Feb 16, 2015 4:36 PM

    fetts81 says:
    Feb 16, 2015 1:44 PM
    Brady restructured his deal twice now. Because he wants to win at all costs. Brady will make 7 mil this year… And it’s not guaranteed…. That’s the difference between him and manning and that’ll never change
    ————————————————————————
    Bradys next 3 seasons are guaranteed Fetts81. Go google it.
    When they re did his deal there was a clause if Brady was on the roster the last game of the 2014 season it guaranteed his remaining contract. He took a $36 mil bonus to lower his cap number the next 3 years. It was a good deal for both sides.
    go to “spotrac nfl” to see his contract details.

  144. solo681 says: Feb 16, 2015 4:37 PM

    raideralex99 says:
    Feb 16, 2015 3:56 PM

    “For all those who want Peyton to take a pay cut … tomorrow when you go to work tell your boss you will take a 50% pay cut so your company can win the award for the best company.”

    Hell YEAH I’ll take $10 million and you can keep ALL the trophies and my job as well.

  145. whybotherifeverythinggetscensored says: Feb 16, 2015 4:43 PM

    I do think that Manning’s open market value is still at about $20M. I do believe that he faded just because he was hurt, and as long as he can show a team that it was not permanent, he should be again worth that relative to the open market.

    That said, those saying that we should not tell him what to do with his money, or that we would not take a pay cut, are off base.

    In general, yes, he can do whatever he wants with his money, but most of us, if we had his estimated $125M net worth, would value a SB ring over another $10M. That is the same argument for the pay cut: Yes, if I lived on a regular salary, I might not be able to take a pay cut, but I don’t have $125M to back me up…I certainly would be glad to cut my pay for a second ring, and cementing my stature as a two-time winner instead of the all-time choker.

  146. tedmurph says: Feb 16, 2015 6:00 PM

    Bradys next 3 seasons are guaranteed Fetts81.

    That’s right, Brady is guaranteed 27 mil over the next 3yrs, for injury, not skill. 8mil/yr average. waaay below market. If they cut him he gets nothing. Google that and have someone with a brain read it to you.

  147. johnniemayes says: Feb 16, 2015 10:47 PM

    The way he fell off during 2nd half of last season and the new Denver run first offense lowers Manning’s value to the Broncos. He may be saving up to be part owner of a team some day. But Peyton, if you want a Super Bowl you’ll take a pay cut.

  148. nycfan11 says: Feb 17, 2015 12:42 AM

    if he’s motivated to lower cap why wouldn’t he just tell them how low he will go? ball in his court. no “delicate dances.”

  149. Savage Lizard says: Feb 17, 2015 2:23 AM

    He can take the pay cut and make up for it doing some more of those Oreo licking commercials.

  150. nhpats says: Feb 17, 2015 9:32 AM

    Just how much should a team pay a guy to choke year after year in the postseason?

  151. solo681 says: Feb 17, 2015 12:16 PM

    Nothing in life is GUARANTEED.

    However, if you say Brady & Lombardi you are getting close.

  152. jkautz11 says: Feb 17, 2015 7:24 PM

    Brady has Gisele, of course he can afford a giant pay cut

  153. jasonculhane says: Feb 17, 2015 9:36 PM

    Maybe Ryan Clady should take a pay cut… Was ranked #41 last year,

  154. psj3809 says: Feb 18, 2015 7:59 AM

    It must come to a point in a great NFL players career that it surely doesnt matter so much about money

    I’m not saying he should put his body through pain and get hit all season long for 3 mill a year. But ‘surely’ if he took his salary down to say 8 mill everyone would be happy ?

    Peyton must have 100+ mill in the bank, even when he retires he’ll get jobs all over the place or advert work.

    Surely it comes to a point where you think ‘i’ve already got 120 mill in the bank, i dont need anymore….’ ??

    Sadly i dont think thats true for athletes, they just want more and more. Remember reading how Carson Palmer saved so much money (fair play instead of blowing it all and then saying hes bankrupt a year later) but again hes haggling over contracts for the Raiders or Cardinals and hes already minted.

    So many people in poverty in this world and Peyton is fine with getting paid well over a million PER game despite having millions in the bank. Shame

  155. All-American Voltron says: Feb 18, 2015 9:47 AM

    First off, Peyton has never taken a pay cut in his life in 18 years to benefit the team or any other players, so there’s no reason to start now. Secondly, the man is nearing retirement, so the last thing he’s going to do is take LESS money. And thirdly John Elway does not want Peyton Manning back, this is a tactic to squeeze Peyton out of Denver.

  156. carloswlassiter says: Feb 19, 2015 11:32 PM

    Even if Manning does take a pay cut, the Broncos will use the money on big name, over the hill guys who don’t produce, and they’ll be one and done again in the playoffs.

  157. eazye1187 says: Feb 22, 2015 12:19 PM

    Didn’t even need to read this one to say DUH! Broncos should be more concerned with keeping both the Thomas’ over Manning if he isn’t willing to take enough of a pay cut. If it came down to losing either one of the Thomas’ or Manning…. bye Peyton it was a fun and expensive embarrassment last 3 years.

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