2012 NFL Free Agents: Predicting Where Peyton Manning and More Top QBs Will Land

No position in the NFL is more important than quarterback. A great one can transform a mediocre offense into a powerhouse. That's why it's important for teams without a reliable signal-caller to address the issue during this offseason.

Let's examine the top quarterbacks on the market and where they will land before next season.

Peyton Manning

Manning is making the rounds after being released by the Indianapolis Colts. He's had highly-publicized meetings with the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals as his quest to find a new team continues. There's certainly no shortage of suitors.

Assuming he's healthy, and Manning clearly believes he will be since he's working so hard to figure out his best option, No. 18 is still one of the league's top quarterbacks. He'll needs some time to shake off the rust, but once he finds his groove it will be like he never left.

After seeing what Larry Fitzgerald can do with sub-par QBs, it has to make Manning excited about what they could accomplish working together. I think Fitzgerald's presence gives Arizona an edge.

Prediction: Arizona Cardinals

Matt Flynn

After bursting onto the scene while filling in for Aaron Rodgers, Flynn will attempt to capitalize by inking a long-term deal. There are several cautionary tales, including Kevin Kolb, when it comes to putting faith in a QB with little experience, but Flynn has all the tools.

If he's smart, he'll wait a couple weeks after Manning signs to allow his market to fully develop. Some teams which have been focusing on the former Colts star will likely shift his way once a signing occurs. The more interested teams, the more money he can demand.

The Dolphins really need a new face under center and former Packers coach Joe Philbin gives the team connection to Flynn. He would be a good fit alongside Reggie Bush and Brandon Marshall.

Prediction: Miami Dolphins

Chad Henne

Henne appears to be more coveted than most experts were anticipating. Alex Marvez of Fox Sports reports several teams view the former Dolphins quarterback as a legitimate fallback option if they miss out on Manning and Flynn.

Even though he's shown glimpses of potential, Henne has never had a quarterback rating above 80. It's the upside that needy teams will focus on, meaning he'll likely get another chance to prove he deserves a starting job.

The Jets are reportedly still targeting Henne despite the contract extension given to Mark Sanchez. If given a fair shot to win the job, there's a good chance Henne would come out on top.

Prediction: New York Jets