Manning Suiting Up As Backup Quarterback

Perhaps, for the first time since he arrived at the University of Tennessee, Peyton Manning will suit up for a football game and be a team's backup quarterback.

Denver Broncos coach Gary Kubiak said Wednesday that Manning, a five-time NFL MVP, has progressed enough in his rehab from a torn plantar fascia near his left heel to be the team's No. 2 quarterback in Sunday's regular-season finale against the San Diego Chargers. Kubiak had told the media Tuesday that Brock Osweiler would start his seventh consecutive game Sunday.

"Obviously it means a lot," Osweiler said. "It shows that Coach believes in me. ... It feels good, but I have a job to do this week, and that's where my focus is."

With the players having Tuesday off, Osweiler learned of the decision Wednesday.

"I actually just found out a couple minutes ago ... whether I was told yesterday or 30 seconds ago, it's not changing my approach,'' Osweiler said. "I think Coach understands that.''

Kubiak said Manning would be part of practice Wednesday and "will go back to work for the football team this week."