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Because the coaches can't join them on the practice fields until next month, the players run the on-field portion of the program themselves, and this arrangement is perfectly suited for Manning, who will direct the installation of the Broncos' new no-huddle offense.
Manning, though, said he felt like the new kid in school.
"I think a number of us did. I was with Jacob Tamme and Joel Dreessen, Caleb (Hanie), the same way. We have some new guys. So, I'm learning as we go, as well," Manning said. "Certainly when you get out there on the field and you're throwing passes to receivers, you feel a little more comfortable there, as far as knowing what you're doing a little bit."
Decker said Manning is making everyone around him better because of his famous work ethic, and cornerback Champ Bailey said that goes for Denver's defense, too.
Bailey sent Manning numerous texts during the quarterback's whirlwind free agency tour pleading with him to come to Denver.
"Why? Because he's an amazing player and his leadership alone is bar none the best in the league," Bailey said. "You need a guy like that on your team, and where I want to go, what I want to do toward the end of my career is win a championship and I feel like he gives us the best chance."
Bailey said he puts Manning at the top of the QB list because of the "way he breaks down a defense and pretty much tell you what you're in and half the guys on defense don't even know what we're doing. It's sad but true. You try to trick him as much as possible, but for some reason, somebody always tips him and he knows, he just knows."
Bailey said the Broncos have to be careful they don't take Manning's presence for granted.
"I tell everybody in our defensive room, `Just because we have a guy like that, it's not going to get easier for us.' We've got to work harder because the expectations are here," Bailey said, holding his right hand high. "He's going to kick our butts in practice, so we've got to be ready to go."
NOTES: Manning said he was excited for his little brother, Eli, to host "Saturday Night Live" next month as he once famously did. "I'll be tuned it," Manning said. ... WR Demaryius Thomas was in attendance Monday but he hasn't been working out with Manning like Decker has. Thomas underwent surgery on his left pinky last month to remove a pin that was inserted after it was shattered during a practice in September. ... The Broncos have rescinded their $1.26 million tender for restricted free agent DT Ryan McBean, the Denver Post reported. McBean received a tender at the original (fourth) round level. McBean is facing a six-game drug suspension to start the 2012 season.
[Associated Press;
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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