2012 NFL Free Agents: Peyton Manning Would Give 49ers Super Bowl

Peyton Manning would give the Titans or Broncos a clear advantage next year. If he goes to the San Francisco 49ers, well, that's just not fair. 

We conclude what was a wild weekend for the NFL and the free agents that finally hit the market. The biggest fish was Manning, whose splash is still causing tremendous waves across the league. 

We can now add the San Francisco 49ers to the mix of teams that have a shot at putting Manning into their jersey next season. 

It all began with a simple tweet from Chris Mortensen that concluded with me screaming, "Are you kidding me?" The 49ers were involved in this amazing race for the legendary QB.

"

Filed to ESPN: Third team in Manning race that has emerged is49ers - Manning worked out for Harbaugh &took physical this week #NFL32

— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) March 16, 2012"

At this point, it's not about upgrading Alex Smith, because a slight upgrade wouldn't necessarily give you the coveted Super Bowl. 

This is about getting a superstar that knows how to win and, when healthy, is nearly unstoppable. 

This brings us to the tweet of the day that gave us a glimpse into the health of Peyton Manning and how he looked throwing the ball for the Denver Broncos. 

In what was almost an Area 51 level secure workout, John Elway gave us some crucial information.

"

We enjoyed visiting with Peyton today in N.C. He threw the ball great and looked very comfortable out there.

— John Elway (@johnelway) March 16, 2012"

Of course, there is some level of scrutiny we must take with this report. Until we see with our own eyes that Manning is gunning the ball like he used to, we will wait to label him as fully back in form. 

With that being said, it sounds like the Broncos are enamored with Manning and how he looked. The Washington Post reports the workout lasted "a little under two hours" and Elway was more than confident an Manning's ability. 

I like the Broncos' chances with a healthy Manning, but I love them in regards to the 49ers. 

This was one of the best defenses in the league last year, and one that played with heart and grit throughout each game. Jim Harbaugh has changed the culture of this team, and winning ways are back again. 

Manning really only needs to prove two things. 

First, that he is healthy and can stand a full season under center. It's clear he is closer to that than we thought just a couple weeks ago. 

Second, that he can command a new offense, which should be no issue at all considering his experience, intelligence and work ethic. 

The same dominance that he enjoyed running the Colts would be alive and well at Candlestick. Even if he enjoyed close to that kind of comfort and poise, the Niners would clearly be the team to beat out of the gate next season. 

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