Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker had a fairly productive second season in the NFL, catching 44 passes for 612 yards with eight touchdowns in 2011.
However, Decker was poised for a breakout season before the offense shifted to a run-heavy approach when Tim Tebow replaced Kyle Orton under center. Decker had 20 receptions in the first four weeks of the season, but caught just 22 balls over the final 11 weeks.
So when the Broncos signed Peyton Manning in March, it felt like Christmas morning, Decker said during a Tuesday appearance on NFL Network's "NFL AM".
"I was excited," Decker said. "I can't tell you, I guess, the feelings I had. It was like I was a little kid (on) Christmas morning. (I was) more excited for the opportunity to play with one of the best in the league and have a chance to really jump-start my career."
Manning only played the one series in the Broncos' preseason opener against the Chicago Bears, but he targeted Decker twice. Both passes were completed, gaining a total of 29 yards and a pair of first downs.
Follow Brian McIntyre on Twitter _@brianmcintyre_.
