Peyton Manning Rumors: Cold-Weather Teams Reportedly Have No Chance at QB

Having played in a dome for his entire career, new free-agent quarterback Peyton Manning must have a certain comfort level in that setting. While he has had moderate success in cold weather over the years, he has generally been far better in warmer climates or under a roof.

According to Mark Cannizzaro of the New York Post, sources close to Manning say that he has no interest in playing in cold weather. While that could be a guess on the part of Cannizzaro's sources, it makes perfect sense that a veteran player like Manning would want to stick with what he has grown accustomed to over the years.

If the report is true, then there are several teams cold-weather interested in Manning who may be out of the running. 

Denver Broncos

Even with much-maligned quarterback Tim Tebow seemingly penciled in as the Denver Broncos' starter this season, there is talk that the Broncos could be players for Manning. According to Lionel Bienvenu of Denver 7Sports, the Broncos will send out a feeler call to Manning's agent in order to gauge the future Hall of Famer's interest.

Seeing as more than half the league is likely to inquire about Manning in some capacity, it isn't a huge shock that the Broncos want to be in the running. They have the benefit of legendary quarterback John Elway having a big say in personnel decisions, but there are drawbacks as well. Obviously, the weather can be quite crazy in Denver, as blizzards are routine. Also, the high altitude may not be kind to an aging player like Manning.

On top of that, the offense isn't exactly overflowing with quality weapons. Demaryius Thomas has the makings of a good receiver, but Eric Decker is injury prone and Eddie Royal is nothing special. The weather may be the main reason why Manning won't go to Denver, but he has plenty of better options as far as supporting casts go too. 

New York Jets

Like the Denver Broncos, the New York Jets have inquired about Manning's interest in joining Gang Green, according to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News. It has long been speculated that the Jets would make a play for Manning if he were released. The Jets are also in a situation similar to Denver's, as incumbent quarterback Mark Sanchez is an issue the Jets will have to deal with.

One would think that if Manning truly wanted to play for the Jets, then the organization would have no issue kicking Sanchez to the curb. The key, however, is whether Manning reciprocates interest. The Jets are likely the best of any of Manning's main suitors in terms of how close they are to winning Super Bowl, but there are other factors at work.

Weather is the main thing to consider if you believe Cannizzaro's report. The wind tends to whip around in the Meadowlands, so things wouldn't come easily for Manning. Aside from that, it comes down to how desperate the Jets are. Unlike the Washington Redskins or Miami Dolphins, the Jets have a contingency plan in Sanchez. When you couple that with what may be lukewarm interest from Manning, it just isn't a good fit.

Tennessee Titans

Although they would certainly seem to be a long shot at best, ESPN is reporting that the Tennessee Titans are one of 12 teams that have contacted Manning's camp and expressed interest. The Titans have gotten a good look at Manning over the years, as he and the division rival Colts have often gotten the better of them, so it makes sense that they would want him.

Manning has connections to the state of Tennessee as he played his college ball at the University of Tennessee many moons ago, but it's doubtful that there would be enough to make the Titans a major player for his services. The Titans already have a veteran signal caller in Matt Hasselbeck as well as last year's No. 8 overall pick in Jake Locker who showed promise in his limited action, so Manning will likely view the position as being too crowded for his liking.

While the weather isn't as radical in Tennessee as it can be in Denver or New York, it's no picnic later in the season. It often rains and the field gets very sloppy, so the conditions would be less than ideal for Manning. He isn't going to end up with the Titans anyway, but the weather certainly doesn't help Tennessee's case.