Peyton Manning Rumors: Estimated Odds of Final 3 Teams to Sign Manning

Just a few short hours ago, it seemed like the Manning race was finally coming to a close, until we learned of the latest scoop on the "mystery" third team in the race: the San Francisco 49ers. 

With three teams left in contention, let's examine the outlook for each team in their hopes of landing the future Hall of Famer. 

Denver Broncos

All of the news is going to the newer contenders, but the Broncos are alive and well. They are already talking contract with Manning, having reportedly extended an offer for five years, $90 million.

That number would be the baseline for what he would accept, but what this tells us is that the Broncos are ready for this to end.

They are taking the most risk of the remaining teams because of Tim Tebow; Manning's decision will be a franchise-altering one for the Broncos, no matter what it is.

Acquiring Manning could spell the end of Tebow, and the Broncos need to act quickly if that is to be the case. 

Tennessee Titans

After extending a "contract for life" to Manning, the Titans are as committed as can be. Since yesterday, nothing new is in development, but they cannot be too pleased about the entrance of another combatant. 

They still, however, have a hometown advantage over the other teams, being just a few hours away from Peyton's alma mater. Acquiring veteran guard Steve Hutchinson yesterday may have been another attempt to prod Manning toward the Titans. 

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers may be late to the party, but they have an awful lot to offer to Manning. They have a great young coach, a storied franchise, but most importantly, the best chance to win a Super Bowl. 

This is a team that went 13-3 and was a muffed punt away from a Super Bowl visit a year ago. They return all 11 starters on defense and added Randy Moss to the mix. Throw in the fact that they are in a weak division, and its hard to not envision the 49ers in the Super Bowl with Manning at the helm. 

Being in the NFC hurts their cause a little, but the appeal of winning that the 49ers bring to the table will be tough for Manning to turn down. In my opinion, I would not be surprised to hear them become favorites sooner than later.