2012 NFL Free Agents: Philadelphia Eagles Do Not Need Peyton Manning

In the wake of Peyton Manning’s departure from Indianapolis, many city names have surfaced as new possible destinations for the former Colt. While Washington, Miami and Seattle are more or less expected to be among the suitors, Philadelphia and the Eagles are not.

Despite that, Jeff McLane expressed the opinion that the Eagles should pursue Manning. Although he too thinks that’s a “long shot,” McLane reports that none of his Eagles contacts denied (neither confirmed) interest in Manning.

Seriously though, is there any reason the Eagles should go after Peyton?

He is a four-time NFL MVP, he has won a Super Bowl and has been to nine consecutive Pro Bowls—but these numbers belong to the past.

The Eagles are not in a desperate position for a quarterback. Even if you dislike Michael Vick, he is a reliable player and has two years as the team’s starting quarterback under his belt. With linebacker and safety being the team’s biggest needs, it wouldn’t be wise to spend so much money for a quarterback—even worse, trade your current starter.

Furthermore, Manning is past his prime. He will be 36 years old in a few weeks and his arm strength and accuracy are nowhere near his standards; standards that defined the elite. It is doubtful whether Manning will return to 100% playing condition and when that’s going to happen.

Neck injuries are serious and hard to overcome. Personally, I wouldn’t be surprised if Manning retired after such a setback. But since he wants to play, then the interested teams should really take that into consideration.

Philadelphia should stick to what the common sense suggests: Add a playmaker at linebacker and a veteran safety that can mentor Nate Allen and Jaiquawn Jarrett then use the draft to add two or three promising prospects and add some depth to the roster.

Peyton Manning is at the dusk of his NFL career. He may help some teams in the short-term, but don’t expect him to be a contender. No matter where he ends up, he will be behind a different offensive line, with different targets to throw to and having to memorize a new playbook. Doesn’t sound like that's what the Eagles are after, right?