Peyton Manning Rumors: Miami Dolphins Would Dominate with No. 18 Under Center

Peyton Manning would instantly turn the Miami Dolphins into instant Super Bowl contenders, and there appears to be a solid chance he may be taking his talents to South Beach.

Manning missed the entire 2011 season while recovering from neck surgery. He was recently given medical clearance to resume playing, but there is a very good chance that the Colts will part ways with their star before he is due a $28 million bonus on March 8th.  

If that does happen, Manning will be a highly sought-after free agent. If the following rumors are to be believed, the Dolphins are on Manning's short list of preferred destinations. 

The Rumors

Omar Kelly of the Sun-Sentinel was privy to news of a certain team Peyton would like to play for:

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An NFL source says Miami is on the short list of teams Manning would like to play for when/if the Colts release him to avoid paying a $28 million bonus, which is due on March 8.

Manning and his wife own a condo on South Beach and a source said they'd love to relocate to South Florida if the fit is right. A second source confirmed Manning's interest in the Dolphins. 

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This is very believable rumor. Kelly cites two sources, and it is likely scenario to begin with. 

Impact on Miami

The Dolphins are a lot closer than the typical team that missed the playoffs. They won six of their last nine games. They have a solid defense, and an offense with potential. 

In their last nine games, they allowed an average of just 16.2 points per game. They are stout against the run and solid against the pass. 

Offensively, the Dolphins are a couple of average players away on the offensive line from being dominant. They have a talented backfield with Reggie Bush and Daniel Thomas. 

Whoever plays QB for this team will also have one of the best receivers in the game to throw to. Brandon Marshall is capable of dominating, and would do just that with a QB like Peyton Manning. 

Of course, the real question is whether or not Manning will get his full arm strength back. While it is impossible to tell now, if he is even close to the Manning that last took the field, he would turn this team into a legitimate Super Bowl contender.