They say that reunions get better and better as more time passes. Perhaps that’s true for Denver Broncos Peyton Manning and Brandon Stokley.
The two played together in Indianapolis for four years and developed a nice connection, particularly in 2004 when Stokley had a career best 68 receptions for 1,077 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Now, the prolific quarterback and speedy slot receiver are together again after seven years apart. Well, that’s not entirely true. When Manning was being courted by Denver last spring, he stayed in Stokley’s Denver area home and the two got some reps in at a local park one Saturday morning.
Regardless, the history together is likely to pay off. Stokley led the team in receiving in the Broncos’ second preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks. He had 3 catches for 41 yards in the 30-10 loss.
However, Stokley wasn’t particularly happy with the result. He’s had enough games where he’s been the team’s leading receiver to know that in the end, it’s the win that’s the only thing that matters.
“Our expectations are high for our offense,” Stokley said. “We didn’t go out there and play the way we’re capable of playing…We’re fortunate it’s a preseason game.”
Even though Stokley isn’t given a lot of attention in the media, watch for this duo as they reestablish their relationship on the field. Stokley is no longer the fastest guy out there, but he’s got arguably the best hands on the team, and he’s likely to be one of Manning’s best safety nets.
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