Peyton Manning to the Broncos; Team Will Trade Tim Tebow

Peyton Manning will be playing for the Denver Broncos next season, according to a report.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen first reported that Manning had chosen the Broncos over the Tennessee Titans and San Francisco 49ers. Manning had played his entire career with the Indianapolis Colts before the Colts decided to release him rather than pay a $28 million roster bonus.

Manning met with each team privately, including working out for them, before making the decision to sign with the Denver Broncos. It is believed that John Elway, the team's vice president of football operations, was a big factor in his decision to sign with Denver, as he likely had a better chance to win a Super Bowl with the San Francisco 49ers, who narrowly lost to the New York Giants in the NFC Championship game. ESPN reported that Manning personally called Elway and told him he was excited to play for him.

Manning's decision also has major ripple effects throughout the NFL. One of the biggest effects is that it likely signals the end of the Tim Tebow era in Denver. Mortensen reported on Monday that the Broncos would try to trade Tebow after they officially sign Manning.

Tebow created a frenzy with Tebow Mania this season as he led the Broncos to a playoff appearance, but Elway was reportedly never quite happy with the very popular quarterback. He is extremely well-liked by fans, but a lot of football people have criticized his unorthodox throwing style.

One possible landing spot for Tebow could be the Miami Dolphins who are in desperate need for a quarterback and could use a ticket sales boost from a Tebow acquisition. Another option is Jacksonville, where he'd provide a similar type ticket boost. Tebow is extremely popular in Florida from his days as a Heisman winning quarterback for the University of Florida and would definitely increase season ticket sales for either the Dolphins or the Jaguars.

Another ripple effect is on the 49ers' standing with quarterback Alex Smith. Smith guided the 49ers to the NFC Championship game, but became frustrated with the organization's lack of interest in signing a long-term extension. He met with the Miami Dolphins last week, but is said to prefer returning to San Francisco.