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Peyton Manning's return date is reportedly Week 15 against the Pittsburgh Steelers

Looks like we'll see at least three more weeks of Brock Osweiler.

By Scotty Payne
Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

According to NFL Networks Ian Rapoport, look for Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning to be out "at least" 3 weeks, and the target return date for Manning's return in Week 15 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The initial report from the Denver Broncos said that Manning will be out at least two weeks, but look for it to be a little longer than that.

Rapoport does stress that there is no guarantee that Manning will get his job back from current starter Brock Osweiler when he does return.

"The official release was that Manning would be out at least two weeks -- my understanding is it's at least three weeks (from playing)," Rapoport said on NFL Network. "Here's why: He's going to be in a cast for up to 10 days, then he's got another week of rehab, and then he's got to try to get on the field. So the date to circle on your calendar is Dec. 20 against the Steelers. That's the most realistic date that Manning could be back, but no one has guaranteed to me that he'll definitely be back on the field, especially if Brock Osweiler is playing well."

This means we will see Osweiler play against the New England Patriots, the San Diego Chargers, and the Oakland Raiders during Manning's absence. If Osweiler plays well during this three-game stretch, I'd expect him to keep the starting job from Manning.

So obviously this will be an important month for quarterback Brock Osweiler. He is in the final year of his rookie deal, and the Broncos need to see if he's the future of the Broncos or not. He can make or lose a lot of money here in the coming weeks.

Update:

The Broncos have called this report false. So I guess only time will tell on this one.

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