Rams Reportedly Discussing Peyton Manning as a QB Option for 2016

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the recently relocated Los Angeles Rams are discussing the Denver Broncos Peyton Manning as a free agent quarterback option for next season:

If he doesn’t retire after Super Bowl–which seems like the far more likely option, Manning will be due a $21.5 million cap hit for 2016 with the Broncos. Therefore, it seems like a foregone conclusion that he will be playing his last game for Denver regardless of his future plans.

Armed with Case Keenum as the team’s projected starter for next season, the Rams could sorely use an upgrade at quarterback.

The 39 year old Manning clearly isn’t what he once was, coming off a season in which he threw 9 touchdowns to 17 interceptions and a passer rating of 67.9.

However, for a franchise that is looking to attract fans in a new market, the Rams could do a whole lot worse than bringing in an NFL icon such as Manning–even in what would be his 19th NFL season.

Of course, the Rams are already well acquainted with Manning, as their head coach Jeff Fisher battled Manning from 2002-10 in the AFC South (not to mention a 1999 Divisional Round playoff game prior) while coaching the Indianapolis Colts’ rival Tennessee Titans.

However, outside of young star running back Todd Gurley, the Rams don’t have the caliber of receivers and offensive line to really surround Manning offensively in order to become a true contender on a short-term stint.

All of this is likely for naught, as Manning will more than likely retire at Super Bowl 50’s end. Regardless of the outcome, the 39 year old quarterback has little else to prove at the NFL level.

Battling age, injury, and diminished arm strength, the legendary quarterback would be better served to simply ride into the Super Bowl sunset on his own terms–having played at a championship level one last time.