Widespread recent reports had indicated that Manning would be joining the Broncos, and the AFC West outfit have now officially confirmed the news.

Details of Manning's contract have not been revealed but it is thought that the former Indianapolis Colts quarterback has agreed a five-year deal worth $96 million.

Manning will wear his usual No. 18 jersey after he received the blessing of the first Broncos quarterback Frank Tripucka, whose number had been retired by the franchise.

"Peyton is one of the best ever to play this game and I feel very fortunate to have him here," Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said.

Championship

"Our goal has always been to win Super Bowls and Peyton gives us a chance to win another world championship."

Manning added: "I'm very excited to begin the next chapter in my playing career with the Denver Broncos.

"This organisation is committed to winning. This truly is a special football environment - in the end I thought the Broncos were just a great fit."

Manning was released by the Colts after missing the whole of the 2011 season as he recovered from neck surgery, with the team slumping to a league-worst 2-14 record in his absence.

The race for his signature sparked into life immediately, with several teams reportedly making approaches before the destinations were narrowed down to the Tennessee Titans, San Francisco 49ers and the Broncos.

And Manning, who won a Super Bowl with the Colts as well as breaking all of their major career passing records, has opted to resume his NFL career in Denver.