Broncos backup quarterback Brock Osweiler runs through drills at mini camp. (David Zalubowski, The Associated Press)
There’s a popular belief that the backup quarterback position is the best job in sports. You get paid a good salary to listen in meetings and hold a clipboard on game day. And you can’t get hit if you don’t play.
But for Brock Osweiler, who has held that job for the last three seasons, there is at least one better job: starting quarterback.
“If you come in this league and you’re comfortable with being a backup, something’s wrong,” Osweiler said after Thursday’s mini camp practice. “I’ve always had visions of being a starting quarterback. That’s why I come to work every day.”
Osweiler likely won’t see much playing time this season if Peyton Manning remains healthy, but that’s not stopping him from taking advantage of the extra snaps he’s receiving in organized team activities.
“I’m not going to lie — I really don’t mind him taking his little half days and going over to the weight room while I’m on the field,” he said. “Getting all these extra reps have benefited my game.”
Osweiler is in a contract year, and his hope to be the starter in Denver correlates with how long Manning may be at the helm. Osweiler said he’s seen steady progress in his game throughout OTAs and camp. He also believes he has a solid grip of coach Gary Kubiak’s new system and has developed chemistry with the receivers, especially Cody Latimer.
Osweiler completed four of 10 passes for 52 yards and a touchdown last season in limited action. But he said any day could be his turn to be the man under center.
“I’d be smiling ear to ear, ready to go,” Osweiler said.
