Denver Broncos defensive end DeMarcus Ware is confident that teammate Peyton Manning will return to the team for next season.

After suggestions that the veteran quarterback is showing signs of decline, it has been reported that he may be considering retirement.

However, Ware has spoken to him since the divisional-round loss to the Indianapolis Colts and he believes that retirement isn't an option.

"Me and Peyton will always talk back and forth about things. Now he's just looking forward to the next season and how we can get better," Ware told reporters.

"I think he'll be back. I feel like he still has a couple years in him."

Ware added that he believes the 38-year-old just needs time to get healthy and rest and "hit the restart button" ahead of next season.