If Peyton Manning wants to play in the NFL in 2015, the Denver Broncos want him back, says John Elway.

Manning's struggles in Sunday's 24-13 loss to the Indianapolis Colts came just one day before Coach John Fox departed the franchise, and those two factors led to much speculation as to whether or not Manning, 38, would want to return to the team next season.

“The bottom line is we want him back. It's gonna come down to what he wants to do,” Elway said of Manning in his season-ending address.

Elway and Manning met with each other on Monday, but Elway said he told Manning he didn't want to discuss Manning's future at that time, wanting to give the future Hall of Fame quarterback time to sort out what his future will be.

“I did have a great conversation with Peyton yesterday. We sat and talked about game,” Elway said. “I told him ...we're not gonna talk about your future (today). He needs to get away. The last thing I want to do is talk about your future. … In four or five weeks, we'll get back together and see where he is.”

As for why Fox departed as head coach, Elway indicated that he and Fox had different ideas of what it would take for the Broncos to take the next step as an organization. Elway indicated that he had not spoken yet with any of the potential candidates.

Elway did say that Manning would be involved in the decision to hire a new coach.

As for whether or not Manning is healthy enough to play at the level he has performed at for most of his career, Elway said that decision would be strictly up to Manning.

“I can't speak for Peyton, and I won't speak for Peyton. Only Peyton knows how his body feels and what is going on inside his body,” Elway said. Elway added he believes Manning can still have another productive season if he returns.