Miami Dolphins Trade Brandon Marshall to Bears, What It Means for Peyton Manning

The Miami Dolphins traded their best wide receiver to the Chicago Bears just minutes before free agency got underway in the NFL.

Brandon Marshall will be switching leagues and reuniting with former Denver teammate Jay Cutler. Miami might be attempting to free up space for Peyton Manning and other weapons.

Jay Glazer reports that the Dolphins will receive two third-round picks in exchange for the Pro-Bowl wide receiver. Cutler will be ecstatic about the trade as it gives him a legitimate receiver that might take the Bears to the next level.

According to CSNChicago.com, the Bears are also the favorite to sign defensive end Mario Williams, though the trade is a bit surprising considering Miami's pursuit for Manning.

What does it all mean for the Dolphins as they try to land Manning?

Although Marshall has always been a productive receiver, he has not always had his head in the right place. Perhaps Manning was weary of signing with Marshall there.

Could this be an attempt for the Dolphins to free up cap space and sign Reggie Wayne along with Manning and another weapon?

It certainly is going to leave the Dolphins with a lot to be desired should they fail to land Manning and another wide receiver before next season.