2012 NFL Free Agents: Kansas City Chiefs Offer Manning Contract, Are They a Fit?

Reports claim that while a ton of teams expressed interest in quarterback Peyton Manning once he officially became a free agent this week, only the Kansas City Chiefs actually offered the four-time MVP a contract.

The Chiefs have plenty of cap room and do boast a wealth of young talent at the skill positions, but I personally don't think they are the place Manning wants to be.

With Jamaal Charles and Dwayne Bowe to go along with Tony Moeaki, the Chiefs can surround whoever their quarterback is with talent. That said, Matt Cassel is already on the roster and it's currently his team.

Bringing Manning on board makes sense if Kansas City wants a quick upgrade at the position, but the 11-time Pro Bowler will also be wary of upsetting a locker room wherever he goes.

You can bet that Manning's pursuit of a new home will be one of the most calculated and measured moves in NFL history. He will examine every aspect of a situation and decide whether or not it fits exactly what he wants. 

While some have claimed that the Miami Dolphins have lost a bit of steam in their pursuit of Manning, I still think they present the best fit. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals are thought to be in a close second. 

The Chiefs certainly have a chance, and as long as they get Manning in for a visit, they could make a serious impression on him. Kansas City has great tradition, a great fanbase and there is talent on the roster.

That said, it's going to be tough for the Chiefs to sneak into the race at this point. They have a lot of ground to make up on the leaders.