Manning says he doesn't know when he'll be back

(AP) — All the speculation over returning Brock Osweiler to his backup role when Peyton Manning gets back could prove a waste of time.

The Denver Broncos' 39-year-quarterback told a select group of news outlets Wednesday, including The Associated Press, that he has no idea when he'll play again.

Sitting at his locker to take the weight off his injured left foot, Manning said during a nine-minute interview that his focus isn't on his future or who starts at quarterback for the Broncos (9-2).

Is it better?' The answer is: I don't know because I'm not putting any pressure on it and it's sort of immobilized.

Osweiler said he's not ready to view his starting job as more than a temporary gig.

Osweiler's his quarterback this week and the goal is to try to get Manning healthy and back on the field as soon as possible.

The athletic quarterback's ability to run bootlegs and play action has opened up Kubiak's zone-based offense, which had been modified for Manning.

Osweiler credited Manning with giving him tips at halftime Sunday night that helped Denver come back from a two-touchdown deficit to beat the previously undefeated Patriots 30-24 in overtime.