Report: Peyton Manning Says He’s Ready for to Play in 2015

Peyton Manning is ready for his 18th season in the NFL.

The veteran quarterback told the Denver Broncos that he is physically and mentally ready to play to come back in 2015. Manning, however, has not officially announced that he is coming back for a fourth season in Denver.

ESPN was the first to report on this story.

Manning met with vice president of football operations and general manger John Elway and CEO Joe Ellis on Thursday to discuss his future. Manning informed them that he is ready to play.

Before anything is settled, Manning will have to get a physical checkup, which can take place anytime from Feb. 23 to March 5. The quad that hurt Manning later in the season has reportedly healed. The Broncos will decide on Manning's future after his medical results come back.

"Don't see it being that significant, I feel pretty confident I would pass that physical, that my neck is in good shape," Manning said. "I'd like to avoid a crowd standing outside the MRI room, if possible. I've felt secure about that the past three years and feel the same about that."

Prior to the meeting, Manning was working with trainer Mackie Shilstone in New Orleans for several weeks with the intention to continue playing football. Shilstone "has given the quarterback a strong assessment based on numerous workouts and tests." The renowned trainer has worked with numerous top athletes in the later years of their career.

The Broncos could choose to restructure Manning's contract in order to create more cap room. Several key players, particularly Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas, will become free agents next month.

If Manning is on the roster by March 9, he will be guaranteed $19 million for 2015.