The sports world exploded yesterday as the Indianapolis Colts officially released quarterback Peyton Manning. Today, the hype train continues to roll along, as the speculation of where Manning will land for next season picks up. According to an Adam Schefter report on ESPN.com, that speculation may not last very long. According to Schefter, Manning is looking to make a decision on his next team within a week.
It was widely reported yesterday that 12 teams had already contacted Manning's camp, looking to judge the 4-time league MVP's interest in joining that team. Various reports have confirmed that the Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, Washington Redskins, New York Jets, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, and Miami Dolphins have all been in contact with Manning and his representation.
Schefter's report also discusses a possible role for Hall of Fame Miami quarterback Dan Marino in Manning's decision making process:
"Former Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino said Thursday he will not reach out to Manning about his options in free agency," Schefter writes, "noting that the four-time NFL MVP has enough people 'working with him to help him make the right decisions.'
"But if Manning asks, Marino says 'I would definitely answer.' Marino spoke at a charity golf tournament, saying Manning 'fits with anybody' in the NFL."
After the emotional press conference in Indianapolis yesterday, Manning flew home to Miami, where a horde of reporters followed him from the airport. Eventually, the media circus led to Manning holding an impromptu press availability, stating, "I have no idea who wants me, what team wants me, how this process works. I don't know if it's like college recruiting where you go take visits. I mean, this is all so new to me."
As Manning figures out the process of free agency, the rest of the NFL waits to see what he will decide. And, according to Schefter, that wait should not have to be too long.