The Denver Broncos will have to wait for at least two more weeks before they can have franchise quarterback Peyton Manning back as the latter will have to heal from a left foot injury (partially torn plantar fascia). 

Manning was out in their 17–15 victory over the Chicago Bears last Sunday and was in Charlotte the next day to see Dr. Robert Anderson for the injury. 

According to a report by ESPN, Anderson recommended for Manning to wear a cast on his left foot for next week and it will be removed the following week to proceed with the treatment. 

The report added that Manning was back in Denver last Tuesday where he met with Broncos head coach Gary Kubiak and the team's medical's staff. 

Kubiak said they already have a plan for Manning's recovery, adding that the veteran passer will be able to participate in meetings and workouts, although they are also expecting him to miss a few games. 

In nine games played this season, Manning has 193 completions for 2,180 yards and only nine touchdowns, also throwing 17 interceptions. 

Replacing the 39-year-old is quarterback Brock Osweiler who performed well in his first career-start in Denver's victory over the Bears. 

Osweiler completed 20 of 27 passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns against the Bears, with the win snapping a two-game losing skid for the Broncos. 

The 25-year-old was announced to be starting when they take on the defending champions New England Patriots this Sunday and without having a backup, ESPN reported that the Broncos are planning to hold a work out for Christian Ponder. 

ESPN added that if Ponder does well, the Broncos will sign him and is likely going to be Osweiler's backup. 

The Broncos are gunning to win the American Football Conference (AFC) West and are on track leading the division with an 8–2 record, the closest to them are the Kansas City Chiefs who are at 5–5.