Peyton Manning Rumors: A 'Mystery Team' Is Preparing a Peyton Pursuit

Peyton Manning is reportedly determined to choose his new team next week, and has always visited both the Denver Broncos and the Arizona Cardinals.

He is also expected to visit the Miami Dolphins, who have been considered the "favorites" in the race for Peyton.

However, could there be a mystery team preparing to pursue the former Indianapolis Colts quarterback?

Jim Trotter of SI.com reported via Twitter that a mystery is considering making a serious push for the All-Pro quarterback.

"

While focus is on Broncos, Cardinals & Dolphins, a knowledgeable source says a mystery team is mulling a jump into the Manning sweepstakes.

— Jim Trotter (@SI_JimTrotter) March 11, 2012"

My Thoughts

It is fair to say that this "mystery team" should be taken seriously. Last season, a mystery team reportedly entered the discussion for corner back Nnamdi Asomugha.

That team was the Philadelphia Eagles, who stunned the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets by adding Asomugha to what was already considered an above-average secondary.

I believe this "mystery team" is the San Francisco 49ers. Despite being considered the best fit for Manning by many experts, the 49ers' priority was resigning quarterback Alex Smith.

However, they are reportedly far apart from a new deal with Smith. Apparently the Mark Sanchez extension didn't help the situation whatsoever.

It could be fitting that Manning could visit the 49ers after he meets with the Arizona Cardinals. Either way, it seems imminent that a decision will be made this week.

Matt Miselis is an NFL Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report. Follow him on Twitter.