Peyton Manning told the Denver Broncos in a meeting with team officials, including general manager John Elway, that he's "physically and mentally prepared to play at a significant level"*in 2015, according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen.
Retirement remains an option, per the report, but it's not an option that was expressed at the meeting*to*Elway and CEO Joe Ellis. Although there is no specific deadline for either side, Manning and the Broncos are expected to come to a resolution next week.
So you ask yourself ... Manning wants to play, what's the problem?
Elway has said he wants Manning back — but at what cost? Manning is slated to make a*guaranteed $19 million if he's on the roster on March 9, and the Broncos could ask for a reduction in that number. He also could be asked for a*formal physical exam, which is mandated in Manning's contract, per Mortensen.
The Broncos are slated to have around $26 million of salary-cap space, but there are concerns over keeping the roster mostly intact, especially with wide receiver Demaryius Thomas and tight end Julius Thomas set to hit free agency.
There also is the question of how Manning would fit in Gary Kubiak's offense. Don't forget: Kubiak reportedly pushed the Houston Texans (when he was their head coach) to pass on them signing Manning as a free agent before the 2012 season, although since being named the Broncos' head coach Kubiak has said Manning could work fine in his scheme.

As for Manning's health, the thigh injury that hindered him down the stretch last season reportedly is healed. He has been working with noted trainer Mackie Shilstone the past few weeks in New Orleans and reportedly has signed off on Manning based on what he has seen during the workouts.
Pretty soon we'll find out if Manning and the Broncos will give it one more shot at a Super Bowl title, and under what conditions.
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Eric Edholm is a writer for Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Eric_Edholm