Manning building his arm strength
Broncos QB patient with rehab regimen
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning looked sharp Tuesday, zip-lining throws and moving with ease during the first practice of a three-day minicamp.
There was one eye-catching, 35-yard seam pass that hit wide receiver Demaryius Thomas a beat ahead of Pro Bowl cornerback Champ Bailey for an easy touchdown during 7-on-7 drills.
Manning’s veteran savvy led to Bailey favoring the outside on that strike.
“Peyton anticipated where Demaryius was going to be and saw the play the whole way,” Bailey said.
“When (executive vice president of football operations) John Elway got Peyton to come here, it made my year, made my career. I’ve never played with a guy like this.”
But it was clear Manning’s arm strength hadn’t fully returned after career-threatening spinal fusion surgery.
By comparison, the ball jumped off the hand of secondround rookie quarterback Brock Osweiler noticeably better on several throws.
Yet that’s OK with Manning and coach John Fox, who want Manning’s deep passes humming come Denver’s season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers at home Sept. 9.
“I had the physical with the doctors Monday and we’re doing all the right things, but some things take time,” Manning told USA TODAY Sports in regard to the intensive rehab regimen needed for the triceps nerve in his throwing arm.
“I can’t emphasize enough that I still have rehab to do.”
Thursday is the last day the Broncos will practice as a team before training camp. Manning will continue to work his arm over the next six weeks, perhaps throwing to his talented but new group of receivers, including Thomas, Eric Decker and tight end Joel Dreessen.
Duke coach David Cutcliffe, who orchestrated Manning’s comeback since February and is in regular contact, has no concerns.
“Peyton will reach 100% of what it takes to win in the NFL again,” Cutcliffe said.
“One thing you don’t want him to do now is overthrow. He’s never had to depend on a cannon to make up for mental mistakes.”