Jets Beware? Manning Reportedly Meets With Coach Of AFC East Rival Dolphins
NEW YORK (WFAN/AP) -- As if lining up against New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady twice per season wasn't enough, now there's the possibility Peyton Manning could plague the Jets in the AFC East.
According to multiple reports, Manning met with Miami Dolphins coach Joe Philbin and some members of his staff Monday night in Indianapolis.
The sides spent "nearly six hours" in discussions that "rarely ... strayed from football strategy," NFL.com reported.
Four-time MVP Manning is, of course, the top free agent after he was released last week by Indianapolis. He's also met with the Broncos and Cardinals.
Despite speculation, Manning did not show at the Dolphins' headquarters Monday.
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross arrived at the team complex at midmorning, and several players — including quarterback Chad Henne — showed up around the same time to work out. Henne is a free agent and not expected back this season.
A media stakeout at the complex began when a local TV station camera crew arrived at 4 a.m. Half a dozen TV cameras and a handful of reporters eventually gathered across the street. They weren't allowed on the team's property, but a Dolphins official brought out water, pizza and napkins.
Curious motorists occasionally pulled up to ask for an update.
What's next? The Associated Press reports Manning will meet with the Tennessee Titans.
Titans owner Bud Adams made it known Sunday he will do whatever it takes to sign Manning to get back to the playoffs and win his team's first Super Bowl. Adams told The Tennessean he had talked to Manning's agent, Tom Condon, asking for a visit with the quarterback.
"I want Manning," Adams told The Tennessean. "I'd love to see him in Titan blue after watching him so many years with the Colts. ... I want him. I am ready to do what it takes to get him aboard, and I think he'd be the guy to get us into the playoffs."
While Manning is pursued, the NFL's free agency frenzy will begin Tuesday at 4 p.m.
Two games against Brady, two against Manning. Would the Jets have any shot in the AFC East? Sound off below...
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