Peyton Manning: Projecting Denver Broncos' Star QB's 2012 Output

In a matter of two years, Peyton Manning went from being arguably the most reliable starting quarterback in NFL history to one of the biggest question marks of 2012.

The Denver Broncos are counting on the veteran star to return to prominence, but the organization has known from the start that this project may face some turbulence along the way.

Despite making the transition to a different offense, with all new weapons, Manning is a bona fide star. He will have no problem taking advantage of the opportunities given to him.

While some may question how he will play, the on-field results will speak for themselves.

Team Stats

The Denver Broncos made the playoffs in 2011. However, it took one of the wildest postseason chases in NFL history, led by one of the most polarizing figures to step foot in the NFL.

This year, the organization would rather win the division cleanly and make the path to playoff glory as easy as possible. That’s why they went out and signed Manning in the first place.

With a tough AFC schedule on tap, the Broncos are likely to go 10-6 in the regular season and make the playoffs thanks in large part to the stellar play of Manning.

Once Denver gets into the postseason, anything can happen. Just ask the New York Giants.

Personal Stats

After missing all of 2011 with multiple neck surgeries, Manning is looking to return to the form that he possessed before missing an entire season.

With a tough zone-blocking scheme in Denver, he should have ample time in the pocket to post the kind of numbers fans came to expect in Indianapolis with the Colts.

Manning will play in all 16 games this season and put up over 4,000 passing yards and over 30 touchdowns. While it won’t be a career year, the Broncos offensive reclamation project will be a success.

Fantasy Output

While there is no way to classify Peyton Manning as a sleeper, that is exactly what he is as he enters the 2012 campaign.

Missing an entire season will do that to even the best players.

At an average draft position of 53.14, grabbing a proven veteran like Manning in the late-fourth or early-fifth rounds could end up being the steal of the draft.

If the star lives up to the above billing, Manning will help lead your team to a championship. As long as you draft a solid backup like Jay Cutler or Philip Rivers, this is a risk worth taking.

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