2012 NFL Free Agents: Power Ranking Peyton Manning and Biggest Free-Agent Stars

Peyton Manning was officially released by the Indianapolis Colts on Wednesday, setting up one of the most star-studded free-agent classes in a long time. That's good for competitive balance throughout the NFL as it will spread out some of the elite talent.

Here's a look at the most talented players available this offseason. These players have the ability to shift the balance of power in any division in which they land.

1. Peyton Manning

Prior to last season it would've been possible to count on one hand the number of people who believed Manning would become a free agent. He loved Indianapolis and the city loved him back, but his release shows the league is truly a business above all else.

Now the Colts will move ahead with Andrew Luck as Manning starts his search for a new franchise. There should be no shortage of suitors considering all he's accomplished during his career. Not to mention there's a bunch of teams that could use a QB upgrade.

Manning said in his goodbye press conference he's starting to feel more like himself, which should alleviate most of the concerns teams may have. Assuming he's healthy, he's still one of the five best signal callers in the NFL.

2. Vincent Jackson

Often overlooked in discussions about the league's top wide receivers, Jackson should finally start to get the respect he deserves as a free agent. He's got prototypical size and uses his strength to get open against any type of coverage.

He's a terrific red zone threat, having caught at least seven touchdowns in his last three full seasons, and he isn't afraid to make tough plays over the middle. In other words, he's the type of wideout any quarterback would love having on his side.

The biggest unknown concerning Jackson is what he's looking for in a deal. Will he simply sign with the highest bidder or is he looking to win? His market will be completely different depending on which side he chooses, but he'll be productive with any team.

3. Mario Williams

Williams can't be happy entering free agency after a season spent on injured reserve. It limits the amount of guaranteed money teams will likely be willing to give him, but he's still the most dominant pass rusher available on the market.

He has more than 50 career sacks and was averaging one per game before being injured. There's no reason he won't be able to return to that elite form next season. Previously, he was actually quite durable, so he's not a major injury risk moving forward.

As the league continues to shift toward more high-flying passing offenses, no defense can have enough players who can rush the quarterback. When he's healthy, not players can do it better than Williams, who is clearly the top defender available.