By Ross Jones, FOXSports.com HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- Peyton Manning’s comeback season surprised just about everyone in the NFL. His on-the-field success in 2012 has earned him recognition among his peers. The Broncos quarterback was ranked No. 2 overall in the NFL Network’s Top 100 active players on Thursday night, finishing behind Vikings running back Adrian Peterson for the top overall spot. Although the high praise is well deserved, some feel that other quarterbacks (Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, etc.) belong ahead of him – none of which are his teammate cornerback Omar Bolden. When asked if Manning is the best active quarterback in the league, Bolden responded: “Hands down. I see him every day, so I get to see the real Peyton. It’s serious, man. The dude works hard. He doesn’t take any plays off or days off. He holds everyone accountable and is a true captain of the team.” Manning, who led the Broncos to the AFC Divisional Round after an extensive rehab period following four surgeries in 19 months, had one of the greatest seasons of his career. This offseason, the Broncos added another weapon to the offense signing Wes Welker. The defense has also been retooled and added some depth in positions of need. Bolden, who spoke at his charity event “This is How We Roll” charity event to raise funds for the Boys and Girls Club, has been keeping busy this offseason with one big goal in mind. “I’ve been training and working hard,” Bolden said. “I’m trying to get a starting spot on the field. A lot of people think when you’ve made it to the NFL, you’ve made it, but that’s not good enough for me.” While the Broncos spent a fourth-round pick on Bolden in 2012, the team is also rich with experience at the position as it fields Champ Bailey, Quentin Jammer and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. “I learn so many things from Champ [Bailey],” Bolden said. “He teaches me how to be a pro. This dude has been in the game for 15 years. He’s been to the Pro Bowl more than anyone else at that position. I think he’s the greatest of all time.” Of all things, experience and leadership won’t be an issue in Denver this season. Questions? Comments? Send them to lacesoutmail@gmail.com and we might respond in our weekly mailbag!
