NFL: Predicting 2014 statistical leaders

Projecting the NFL’s statistical leaders for 2014

Dec 29, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) celebrates with quarterback Peyton Manning (18) after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 19, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) signals in the first half during the 2013 AFC Championship game at Sports Authority Field against the New England Patriots at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos — Passing touchdowns

Manning’s yardage totals may see a slight decrease and history would suggest his 55 touchdowns from last year come back down to Earth, but his totals will still be greater than his competitors.

Year Cmp Att Cmp% Yds TD Int Lng Y/G Rate 2013*+ 450 659 68.3 5477 55 10 78 342.3 115.1

When Manning threw a then-NFL record 49 touchdowns in 2004 he followed that up with 28 the following year. When Tom Brady broke his record with 50 touchdowns in 2007, he followed that up with 28 in his next full season.

History is not expecting another 50-touchdown season for Manning, but no other quarterback had 40 touchdowns last year as he had a 16-touchdown lead over Brees, so he can afford to see his numbers cut.

Even if Manning’s numbers take a 20 percent reduction, he’d still be the league leader. I’m picking Manning to lead the NFL in touchdown passes for the fifth time in his career and the first time in consecutive seasons.

Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas may be the best wide receiver and tight end combination in the NFL and make for great red zone targets for No. 18 to pile up his stats.

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