Peyton Manning to Rams in 2016? They’ve reportedly discussed it
We’re still getting used to calling them the Los Angeles Rams again, but we can think of something that would require an even bigger adjustment.
Seeing Peyton Manning in a Rams jersey. Wait, what?
Yes, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Rams have discussed internally the possibility of bringing on Manning — of course, that comes with a lot of caveats.
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First, we don’t know if Manning will play another year in the NFL. The subject of his pending retirement has been a huge topic in the run-up to Super Bowl 50. Second, there’s the technicality of Manning being under contract with the Denver Broncos one more year, although either way he’s not expected to be on the Broncos’ roster next year.
As for the Rams, it’s clear they need quarterback help. They’re expected to add a veteran to the position, and perhaps also draft one, even after re-acquiring Case Keenum, trading for Nick Foles and drafting Sean Manning in the third round a year ago. That’s how bad things look right now.
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This completely fits the Jeff Fisher profile. The head coach loves veteran players, and he spent several years trying — mostly in vain — to stop Manning when he was with the Indianapolis Colts and Fisher coached the Tennessee Titans. Fisher famously once onsides kicked three times in a game when his overmatched Titans faced the Colts in Indy.
And it sets up the possibility, now that the Rams are back in Los Angeles, of a veteran quarterback landing out west in his swan-song season, a la Johnny Unitas with the Chargers and Joe Namath with the Rams.
Would Manning consider it? Possibly. If he goes out and helps beat the Carolina Panthers on Sunday and feels physically up to the challenge, Manning could give it one more ride. And certainly it would benefit the Rams, who are trying to regain a foothold in a city they have not inhabited in more than 20 years, with a whole generation of Rams fans dying off.
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Short of that, the Rams might have to go the route of Robert Griffin III or Johnny Manziel, or the like. Manning might have a few options if he wants to give it a go in 2016, but it’s certainly no guarantee that Sunday won’t be his final game in the NFL.
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Eric Edholm is a writer for Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Eric_Edholm
