On This Date In History: Broncos Sign Manning

Broncos’ fans will long remember Mar. 20, 2012. Tim Tebow was on the roster, but his time with the team was short lived due to the arrival of the “Sheriff,” Peyton Manning. Tebow resurrected the franchise with his magical 2011 season; however, the Broncos made an acquisition to continue its rise back to prominence.

Here comes Manning. The long shot at quarterback who no one predicted would visit, would sign with the Broncos. Manning spent 14 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts in what already was a Hall of Fame career. Broncos, the Tennessee Titans and Arizona Cardinals were in the hunt for the Hall of Fame quarterback, but it was Manning who would make a decision that would take the team to the next level beyond Tebow.

First reported by friend Chris Mortensen, Manning signed with the Broncos on Mar. 19^th, setting off a firestorm at Dove Valley, the region and the entire NFL. The Broncos would make the deal official introducing Manning on Mar. 20^th. The Broncos reached the AFC Divisional round with Tebow the year before only to be blown out by Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots. Manning would later set a precedent of wins, championships and Super Bowls over a four year span, only equaled or better by a few teams in the history of the NFL.

The Broncos under Manning would reach two Super Bowls, two AFC Championships and the postseason all four years he was here in Denver. Manning gave the Broncos a winning culture that would attract free agents to come to the Mile High City and build a stronger legacy with their Hall of Fame quarterback and hopefully the future. In Manning’s short time with the Broncos, his career compared well to the Indianapolis Colts.

Manning wore the Broncos uniform with class and humility since his time in Denver. Mar. 20, 2012 is on par with Feb. 7^th winning of Super Bowl 50 and Mar. 7^th, when the “Sheriff” turned in his badge. So long “Sheriff.” Thanks for the memories.