Looks like Brock Osweiler may start at QB over Peyton Manning for Broncos this week

Editor's Update: This story originally stated Osweiler is "expected" to start. While Mike Klis did use the word "expected" near the end of his article, it seems we got hung up on one word. We apologize for the misunderstanding. There is no decision or expectation regarding who will start Sunday vs. the Bears, and Mike Klis has clarified that his intent of the article was speculative, not declarative. The story has been thus updated below.

Welcome to the Brock Osweiler era?

In wake of the news that Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning has a worsened foot injury and sore rib cage, all signs point "toward the Broncos giving fourth-year quarterback Brock Osweiler the first start of his NFL career this Sunday" against the Bears, according to a report from KUSA-TV's Mike Klis.

Manning may not even be healthy enough to dress for the game:

Osweiler turns 25 on Sunday. If Osweiler does start [redacted], the next question will be whether Manning is considered healthy enough to dress as the backup. If not, the Broncos would dress rookie, No. 3 quarterback Trevor Siemian for the first time this year.

Manning went 5-of-20 for 35 yards and four interceptions in a 29-13 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday, earning a 0.0 passer rating. In relief play, Osweiler went 14-of-24 for 146 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and a 72.6 passer rating.

In his career, Osweiler has gone 31-of-54 for 305 yards and two scores against one interception.

Sunday's game against Chicago will mark Denver's first against John Fox since he "mutually agreed" to part ways with the team in January. Gary Kubiak has gone 7-2 as Denver's head coach since then.

Osweiler is expected (Editor's Note: by me) to start this week because of Manning's injuries, but if he plays well, he likely has a shot to win the job going forward. Klis did not indicate that in his report, but it's a sentiment upon which many fans agree.

It's your time to shine, Brock.