Former Broncos receiver Eric Decker, left, admitted it’s hard to watch Emmanuel Sanders succeed in his place. (Elsa, Getty Images; John Leyba, The Denver Post)
Eric Decker spent four years in Denver — two with Peyton Manning as his quarterback — and quickly became one of the team’s most beloved players. In all, he recorded 3,071 yards from scrimmage with 33 receiving touchdowns as a Bronco before signing with the Jets as a free agent this past summer.
In his place, the Broncos signed former Steeler Emmanuel Sanders, who has since thrived as one of Manning’s top targets, averaging career highs in yards per reception (14.2), receptions per game (6.7) and touchdowns (7).
The Broncos may be struggling as of late, but the Jets are 2-8 and have been riddled with injuries, quarterback issues and, as usual, a slew of negative headlines this season.
In October, ahead of his first meeting with the Broncos as a Jet, Decker said he expected while hinting that his departure was bittersweet. The Broncos won that game, , while the Jets went on to lose another three straight before getting a win over Pittsburgh on Nov. 9.
Ahead of the Jets’ rescheduled matchup with the Bills in Detroit, Decker and offered some revealing comments about what it’s like to watch his old team.
Does he miss playing with Peyton Manning in Denver?
“Honestly, sometimes it’s hard to watch them when they’re playing,” Decker told the Daily News in a quiet moment this week. “When they’re clicking on all cylinders, they’re a tough football team. They got the right pieces.”
Emmanuel Sanders, who replaced Decker, has been integral in the Broncos’ 7-3 start. He’s picked up where Decker left off in Denver’s explosive offense, ranking fourth in receptions (67), fifth in yards (954) and 11th in targets (92).
“Emmanuel Sanders is playing well in my spot, so to speak,” Decker said. “Sometimes, you know, it’s tough to see all the success. But that’s football. It’s going to go in swings. Who says we can’t be a great football team? We got to obviously do some right things to get there, but I’m happy for Peyton and Demaryius (Thomas). I respect them so much. They’re all good friends, so I like to see them do well, but sometimes it’s hard.”
