Peyton Manning tells Bill Belichick ‘this might be my last rodeo’

Peyton Manning was captured by NFL Films cameras telling New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick that this could be his "last rodeo."

In the moments following the Broncos' 20-18 win in the AFC Championship game, Manning and Belichick embraced on the field. Though Belichick's comments weren't picked up by NFL Films' microphones, Manning's words indicate the 39-year-old might have just one game left.

"Hey, listen, this might my last rodeo. So, it sure has been a pleasure," Manning said.

Belichick told reporters after the game he wouldn't share what he told Manning. Asked again Monday during the Patriots' season-ending press conference, he said "Don't have anything to share. I shared it with Peyton."

Manning missed six regular-season games due to injuries and returned to the lineup in the Week 17 finale, leading the Broncos to a win over the San Diego Chargers that provided Denver with home-field advantage over the Patriots for Sunday's conference title game.

With the win over New England, Manning earned back $2 million of the $4 million pay cut he agreed to in March. That reduced his salary from $19 million to $15 million.

If Manning wins Super Bowl 50 on Feb. 7, he will earn the remainder of the pay cut — $2 million — back.

His status for next season is not determined but the No. 1 overall pick in the 1998 draft could decide to retire. If not, the Broncos would face a decision of their own. Backup quarterback Brock Osweiler, who started six games this season in Manning's stead, is scheduled to become a free agent but is viewed as the future starter for the Broncos.