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5 Positive Comments About Manning Shared By 2 Young Teammates

CENTENNIAL, Colo. (CBS4) - The glory of the Broncos Super Bowl win hasn't really set in for some of the players, such as receiver Bennie Fowler.

"It hasn't set in for me, the fact that we won such a big game," Fowler said during his guest appearance on Xfinity Monday Live, which aired on a special night -- Wednesday night. "I don't think it will set in until we see that ring!"

Broncos linebacker Shaquil Barrett, who was also a guest on the show, said riding in Tuesday's victory parade was when things really set in for him.

"We had a lot of people out there, great turnout -- they said a million plus were there," Barrett said. "It was great to have (my teammates) and my family surrounding me and enjoying the experience together."

On Tuesday Broncos Coach Gary Kubiak told reporters he was proud of the fact so many young members of their roster got decent playing time throughout season. That included Fowler and Barrett, who both spent time on the practice squad in 2014.

Fowler and Barrett had plenty to say about the experience they gained, and that included lessons learned from quarterback Peyton Manning. Manning hasn't stated yet whether plans to be back in the locker room next year, and as the speculation surrounding his possible retirement grows, the following are some of the nice comments made by Manning's two young teammates during the show:

"He's impacted the game and he's impacted my life." - Fowler
Fowler had 16 catches for 203 yards this season, with catches of passes thrown by both Manning and Brock Osweiler. Fowler's playing time is bound to increase next season as he gains even more experience, and he thanked Manning for his help in advancing his career and for the influence he has had across the league.

"(Helping him) get a Super Bowl win meant everything." - Fowler
Before the Super Bowl there was a lot of talk in the Broncos locker room about playing hard for others -- such as family members and teammates. Fowler's comment on the CBS4 Sports show was the embodiment of that mentality. Manning is now the only starting quarterback to win Super Bowls with two different teams.

"He led the charge." - Barrett
While 2015 was statistically Manning's worst season to date, he provided the team with veteran leadership, plus Barrett says he often came through at big moments. "He's always going to step up and make that play whenever we need him to," Barrett said. "They might have said the defense carried the team but we can't win a game if the offense doesn't score points. And they scored points at crucial times -- 2 minute drills, at the end of games ... and Peyton Manning led the charge most of the time. I'm always going to appreciate that."

"I have so much respect for him." - Fowler
Fowler caught the 2-point conversion that increased the Broncos lead in Super Bowl 50 to 24-10. It was a memorable play, and Fowler was allowed to keep the ball he caught.

Bennie Fowler and Peyton Manning
Bennie Fowler and Peyton Manning (credit: Bennie Fowler)

But Manning now has that ball, not Fowler. "I gave the ball back to him because of what he's done for the game and how much respect for him and everything he's accomplished," Fowler said. Only time will tell whether it was the last pass Manning will ever throw as a pro football player.

Shaq Barrett
Shaq Barrett puts a hand on the Lombardi Trophy -- held by Joe Namath -- after the Broncos won Super Bowl 50. (credit: CBS)

"I'm going to miss him if he is gone." - Barrett
Barrett feels like a lot of players (and a lot of fans) do with this statement. Since he arrived in Denver, Manning has led the Broncos to 45 regular season victories, two AFC Championships and a Super Bowl win. How can you not miss that?

"He trusts me." - Fowler
In addition to his physical strengths, much of Manning's success can be attributed to the effort that he puts into his preparation and his mental awareness. "Peyton is one of the greatest players this game has ever seen, the greatest mind this game has ever seen," Fowler said. "And for him to be a teammate and him to trust me, to throw me the ball, it's a great feeling."

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