PHOENIX — To begin his first AFC coaches breakfast while representing the Broncos, Gary Kubiak began by wishing Peyton Manning a happy birthday.

All good coaches understand the value of a happy quarterback.

“I’m looking forward to it, about two weeks out from getting started,” Kubiak said. “I’m looking forward to getting him in the building and talking football on a full-time basis. So, happy birthday to him and can’t wait to see him in a couple weeks.”

Manning is about to gather his receivers and tight ends to Duke University for his annual two-day passing tune up. The Broncos will gather as a team at their Dove Valley headquarters for the start of conditioning on April 13.

As of Tuesday, Manning is 39 years old, an advanced age for NFL players. For his own good — and no doubt against his wishes — some modification to his schedule, workout program, practice time might be necessary.

“He and I talked about that,” Kubiak said. “I know his mindset is totally the other way, but I have to get a feel for that. I think as a coach you have to make those suggestions to players. Maybe you take Wednesday here … I don’t know what that’s going to be until I get involved with it on a day to day basis.

“But sometimes with the great ones, the reason they’re great you have to battle them on things like that because they’re used to being a part of it every day.

“I want to do what’s best for him. I went through the same process with John (Elway) late in his career, and it was a battle for me and Mike (Shanahan) to do some things with him.”

Kubiak said adjustments were made in 1997-98 with Elway in regards to meetings, practice and training camp. Meaning he did less.

“But he battled us, too, so that’s why they are who they are,” Kubiak said.

A Broncos offensive coordinator from 1995-2005, Kubiak left for Houston to become the Texans’ head coach from 2006-13. He served last season as the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator before Elway, who is now serving as the Broncos’ general manager, lured him to become his team’s head coach.

Kubiak addressed a myriad of subjects about his football team Tuesday, including: