Peyton Manning on his way to Dolphins After Brandon Marshall Trade?

The first day of NFL free agency kicks off with a big trade.

The Dolphins have reportedly sent Brandon Marshall to the Bears for two third-round picks.

Miami makes the move a day after meeting with Peyton Manning.

Could the Dolphins have traded Marshall as part of their plan to sign the free agent quarterback?

The wide receiver has had multiple issues since being drafted into the NFL. He had a very tumultuous relationship with Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne, and it's possible that Manning told the Dolphins he didn't want to deal with Marshall's baggage.

The trade certainly makes the Dolphins thin at the wide receiver position. Marshall was Miami's leading receiver in 2011. Brian Hartline was second on the team with just 549 yards.

But Manning doesn't necessarily have to go to a team that is stacked at the position.

Former Colts wide out Reggie Wayne is a free agent and will reportedly follow Manning wherever he goes. Wide receiver Pierre Garcon can also sign with any team, and may leave Indianapolis to join Manning as well.

Even if Manning didn't tell Miami to get rid of Marshall, the Dolphins may have done it on their own in order to clear cap space to sign the quarterback.

Miami may need to clear some money if they want to sign Manning and a few of his ex-teammates. Before the deal, Miami was $11.8 million under the cap.

Marshall is scheduled to make $9.3 million in 2012.

Since being released by the Colts, Manning has reportedly met with Denver, Arizona, Tennessee and Miami.