Peyton Manning to New York Jets Could Happen If Alex Smith Gets to Super Bowl

Looking at the headline, you must be wondering what on Earth Alex Smith has to do with the New York Jets possibly landing Peyton Manning next season, but they are linked.

As it stands now, if the Indianapolis Colts were to go ahead and trade Peyton Manning, his best option as far as Super Bowl-ready teams would be the San Francisco 49ers. The only position the 49ers have been lacking at this season is quarterback, which Smith has a chance to change.

After a game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter, Smith became the hero in the 49ers' win over the New Orleans Saints in their Divisional Round matchup on Saturday.

All the ineptitude and failures of the past seven seasons are quickly becoming forgotten among his fans, and Smith might have won his starting job back beyond this season. I wouldn't go ahead and say he's already won it, but he's getting there.

If Smith can have another strong outing against the New York Giants in the NFC Championship game, he will continue to make the case to stay behind center for San Fran. If he can advance and win the Super Bowl, he'd be a lock.

That being said, maybe a Super Bowl victory won't be necessary. If Smith can prove he isn't the reason the 49ers don't ultimately succeed, I think Jim Harbaugh's loyalty will keep Smith in the Bay area next season and possibly beyond.

As a result, the 49ers won't be in play for Manning should he become available. And that can only help the Jets.

New York, despite a lackluster season, isn't far off from being a team able to compete for a Super Bowl. Don't forget: They did get to the AFC Championship game the past two seasons before they missed the playoffs in 2011.

At the end of his career, Manning will look for the most ready-made situation that will give him the best chance to win another Super Bowl. When looking at his options, the Jets are near the top of that list.

Without San Fran in the picture, the Jets chances will increase to land one of the best quarterbacks ever to play in the NFL.