Free-agent quarterback Peyton Manning has plenty of options and he appears to be narrowing them down.

According to a report, Manning is leaning towards the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals in his search for a new team.

ESPN reported that Manning is leaning toward the Broncos and Cardinals after spending about six hours with each team over the past few days.

Released by the Indianapolis Colts last week, Manning was in Denver on Friday and Arizona Sunday.

At least 12 teams contacted Manning's agent, hoping to acquire the services of the Super Bowl winning quarterback who missed all last season while recovering from multiple neck surgeries.

According to the report, the Seattle Seahawks are eager to set up a meeting with Manning, but have not been able to arrange it. The Miami Dolphins have also been very vocal about their desire to sign Manning but, according to sources, Manning does not have a high interest in becoming a Dolphin.

A source close to the situation said that "his gut is that Manning is leaning toward Denver", prior to the meeting with the Cardinals.

 

Peyton Taking Visits

 

Peyton Manning is ready for the next chapter in his NFL career.

One day after he was released by the Indianapolis Colts after a 14-year career with the team, reports surfaced that the four-time NFL MVP plans to make a decision on where he'll play next season within the next week.

ESPN reported the story citing sources and said the former Colt would like to remain in the AFC but is not excluding NFC teams.

A total of 12 NFL teams reportedly contacted Manning's representatives after the 35-year-old was released.

The report confirmed that AFC East clubs Miami and New York, AFC West teams Denver and Kansas City, NFC West clubs Arizona and Seattle have joined Washington in vying for Manning's services.

The Colts are expected to take quarterback Andrew Luck of Stanford with the top pick in the draft and are in a bit of a rebuilding mode pushing them toward the decision not to pay the $28 million bonus owed to Manning and not pick up the four remaining years on his contract.

Manning missed the entire 2011 campaign after having his third neck surgery in 19 months. Prior to the 2011 season, Manning had never missed an NFL game in his 13-year career.

 

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