Archie Manning knows a little something about mini-camps, the NFL, and the rigors of professional football. The retired quarterback toiled his entire 14-season career inside dome-sweet-domes in New Orleans, Houston and Minnesota.
Manning says he's not surprised by how well his son has already integrated into the Broncos operation, nor by a work ethic that's already inspiring many of Peyton's teammates.
"He was always a take charge kind of guy," the elder Manning explained. "He's always worked real hard..he's been real driven. He's always worked to try to bring a team together."
As for Peyton's transition from Indianapolis to Denver, Manning admits it was hard at first. "It would be for anyone," he said. "You get comfortable in one city for a long time; practice facility, coaches, teammates."
When the time came to pick a city, Peyton did not seek out dad's advice. "Peyton's 36 years old, he's a big boy," Manning said. "We communicated. I know this. It was hard for him. To have to turn around (from Indianapolis) after that emotional situation, and then visiting teams and make a decision pretty quick."
"I knew from the get-go Denver was close to his heart, primarily because of their great tradition, but also because of Coach Fox and John Elway," Manning explained. "Since he made the decision, he hasn't looked back. He's just gone to work."
The Broncos are on a five week break until the start of training camp in late July. But when they return, with Peyton at the helm, Manning expects his son will be back at it harder than ever. "He'll be grinding, still re-habbing, still trying to get better," he said. Manning says the enthusiasm surrounding the 2012 Broncos is infectious. "We were in Denver this past weekend, and I sense a real excitement there, anticipating the season," he said.
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