Emmanuel Sanders: Peyton is better leader than Roethlisberger

September 9 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) greets Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) following the game at Sports Authority Field. The Broncos defeated the Steelers 31-19. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Can’t say we didn’t see this coming. According to the Denver Broncos new wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders, Peyton Manning — who has a spotless off the field record and was the most prolific passer in the NFL last season — is a better leader than Ben Roethlisberger — whose record isn’t spotless and has struggled in recent seasons.

More from Denver Broncos

“I feel like Peyton is a far better leader, in terms of staying after practice, catching balls, wanting guys to get on the same page with him, things of that sort,” Sanders said, via 1043thefan.com and transcribed by Pro Football Talk. “This is the first time that I’ve had a quarterback that every single day after practice — no matter what his accolades, NFL MVP, Super Bowl ring — he keeps guys like me and [rookie receiver Cody] Latimer after practice. . . . He’s not one of those guys you’ve got to chase down. He’s going to be right in the same spot, ready to work, every single day. I just feel like that’s a difference from a mental standpoint.”

That’s all we’ve ever heard about Peyton Manning. However, it’s interesting what he may be insinuating about Ben Roethlisberger — that he’s not an extra-mile leader or player. Sanders did express his enjoyment working with Roethlisberger, but it came with some tongue and cheek.

“I’ve got so much love for Ben,” Sanders said. “At the same time, I’m not going to lie. I’m happy to be part of this organization and happy that Peyton is my quarterback.”

According to Pro Football Talk’s Michael David Smith, Sanders noted that Roethlisberger is a winner, too. But at the end of the day, Peyton Manning is in a league of his own. He always has been.

Home/Denver Broncos