Peyton Manning Rumors: Power Ranking Potential Landing Spots for Elite QB

If the Indianapolis Colts do indeed cut Peyton Manning, there will be a mad dash for the services of the star QB, but some teams are far better options than others. 

Despite coming off a neck injury and missing all of last season, Manning still wants to compete. Having been cleared to play next season, Manning is going to garner a ton of attention from now until he steps onto the football field. 

The Colts have a big decision to make, and since they have the No. 1 pick, it's very likely they draft Andrew Luck and focus on the future. Since they have to pay Manning his $28 million bonus by March 8, expect a decision on Manning to come in the coming weeks. 

If Manning is released as expected, these three teams are his best options because at his age, Manning needs to join a team that gives him the best chance at winning big. 

1. Houston Texans 

Bob Allen of KTRK in Houston reported that someone close to Manning told him that the elite QB has an interest in the Texans. 

This would be a very wise move for Manning because he'd be joining a team that is loaded on both sides of the ball. Plus, Manning would get the opportunity to face the Colts twice a year in the race for the AFC South title, and you know he'd love to crush the team that dumped him.

With Andre Johnson, Arian Foster and a surging defense, the Texans are the best possible landing spot for Manning.

Sure, they have Matt Schaub, but he's never been able to truly lead them to greatness, which is why Manning is a better option. He'd be able to play for a couple more years, after which T.J. Yates would take over. 

2. New York Jets 

There has been a great deal of speculation about the Jets and Peyton, and even though Rex Ryan said the team won't pursue him, there's no denying that they would be a great fit for Manning.

It would give Peyton a chance to rival his brother Eli in the city that never sleeps, but what's more important is the fact the Jets are a phenomenal team. They just need an upgrade at quarterback. 

The only problem is that the New York media is insane, and Manning might not want to deal with that. However, since it's an excellent shot at reaching the Super Bowl, I think Manning could get past the media frenzy.

After all, he's a funny guy, so all he'd have to do is just make jokes and walk away. 

New York's run game is in question, but having Manning on the team would help. Opposing defenses would be more worried about him than the run, which would open up more lanes. 

With a strong defense to help him out, Manning would find great success in New York. 

3. Miami Dolphins 

Manning taking his talents to South Beach may not seem like the ideal situation, but it would be a surprisingly great fit. 

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported that Manning and the Dolphins have mutual interest, and honestly, it's easy to see why. 

Miami's defense isn't atrocious by any means, and their offense is definitely on the rise. The only thing missing is a legitimate quarterback. With a top-10 pick in the 2012 NFL draft, the Dolphins can greatly help the offensive line or defense, and if they get Manning, they'd be a much more complete team.  

With Brandon Marshall and Reggie Bush, Manning would have tremendous offensive weapons to use. Plus, given how great he is, Manning can make any no-name player into a star.