Matt Flynn Rumors: Free-Agent QB Is Destined for Miami Dolphins

After the Miami Dolphins failed in their pursuit of Peyton Manning, the free-agent QB under center in 2012 will be former Packers backup Matt Flynn.

The Manning scenario was enticing, and the organization owed it to themselves to pursue him. But I don't see them beating out Denver or Tennessee for the legend's services.

It seems no team has been officially ruled out, per this ESPN report after his Titans meeting. But the hometown appeal and John Elway's influence make the Broncos and Titans the favorites, in my opinion:

"

Manning has not eliminated any of the teams with which he has previously met—the Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals, or Miami Dolphins—sources told ESPN senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen, nor has he closed the door on possibly meeting with other teams.

"

Something tells me that the Brandon Marshall trade and Reggie Wayne's return to Indianapolis doesn't bode well for Manning's chances in Miami.

That brings the Fins back to Flynn.

From the moment former Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin took the job as Dolphins head coach, the speculation began about Flynn joining him in Miami. Now it appears the two parties have been in touch as the Dolphins arrange their Manning contingency plans.

Omar Kelly and Izzy Gold of the Boston Herald report:

"

The Dolphins believe they are still in the hunt for Manning, though they began pursuit free agent quarterback Matt Flynn.

A source said the Dolphins and Cleveland Browns are exchanging contract offers with Flynn, who should command a contract that pays him approximately $8 million a season.

"

It makes the most sense.

Flynn is a bit of a gamble for any team to sign to a large contract. To say he's had limited in-game experience would be an understatement. He has thrown only 132 passes in four seasons.

It is quite possible Flynn isn't the guy we saw in the 2011 season finale against the Detroit Lions. In that game, he was 31-of-44 for 480 yards and six TDs.

But that was just one game.

With limited QB options available this offseason, and the class is getting smaller by the day, Flynn is the best fit for Miami.

If you're going to gamble on a QB who most have seen very little of, it makes sense to bring him into a system he's familiar with.

That is exactly what he'll be given with Philbin.

It also helps Philbin.

Now, there is some familiarity on his part as well. He knows Flynn as well as anyone in the NFL at this point. They already have a good working relationship, and that will make the first season for Philbin easier.

Not long after Manning has his press conference in Denver or Tennessee, the Dolphins will be introducing Flynn as their new QB.