4 Week 1 Storylines to Watch: Adrian Peterson’s Return

The Sheriff's Last Ride?

The end of the 2014 season, for a time, seemed like it was the end of an NFL era with Peyton Manning struggling mightily and the Broncos relying heavily on their running game to close out the season.

Over the last four games Manning threw three touchdowns and six interceptions and fell in the first round of the playoffs to his old squad, the Indianapolis Colts. It was later revealed that he was playing through a torn quad muscle, severely affecting his legendary prowess in the passing game.

Entering the 2015 season, questions remain. Manning recently revealed that he still has a loss of feeling in his fingertips from his 2011 neck surgery. He also, albeit in limited time on the field, failed to produce a single touchdown pass this preseason behind a young offensive line.

Although the Broncos’ recent acquisition of Evan Mathis should help shore up his protection and help keep the run game solid, one can’t help but wonder if the Sheriff is still capable of carrying the Broncos to football’s promised land.

For what it’s worth, reports out of training camp indicate that his arm is looking good, and we project him to finish as the fourth highest scoring fantasy quarterback in 2015.

Manning’s Week 1 matchup against the Ravens will provide a good window into whether he will still be able to continue defying Father Time for at least one more season.