Peyton Manning is getting closer to being able to physically return to the lineup, but for now the starting job for the Denver Broncos remains with Brock Osweiler.
Via Arnie Stapleton of the Associated Press, Manning will return to practice this week for the first time since being shelved last month. However, Osweiler will still get the start for Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Manning was benched after going 5-of-20 for 35 yards and four interceptions against the Kansas City Chiefs on Nov. 15. Manning had been dealing with a plantar fascia injury to his foot, sore ribs and a sore shoulder that left him unable to deliver the football with any effectiveness at the time.
Osweiler has helped the Broncos go 3-1 since that game against Kansas City. However, Denver’s offense has really struggled at times the last two weeks. They have gone seven straight quarters without a touchdown.
Until Manning is game-ready, the Broncos don’t have a choice. Osweiler is the guy. But if the Broncos offense continues to struggle, Manning’s return to the lineup (if he’s healthy enough to do so) is inevitable.