The Miami Dolphins finally got their meeting with former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning on Monday night. Head coach Joe Philbin, offensive coordinator Mike Sherman and other members of Philbin's staff met with Manning for five to six hours, according to ESPN.

 

The meeting took place not in Miami, where Manning has a home, but in Indianapolis, where he had played all his career until being released last week.

 

ESPN cited multiple sources, one of which called it a "good meeting," which was focused on the same topics Manning discussed with the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals. The Dolphins are not considered to be the front-runners in the Manning sweepstakes, and the Tennessee Titans are scheduled to meet with Manning later this week.

 

The Miami Herald reported late Monday that Manning "has received positive feedback about Philbin and also is believed to have a positive impression of Sherman," despite not having any kind of relationship with either. 

 

While Manning toured facilities in Denver and Arizona, he did not see the need to do the same in Miami since both of his Super Bowl appearances came in Miami (he practiced at Dolphins' training facilities).

 

The Dolphins still believe they have a shot at signing Manning, according to the Herald, but his landing spot is still very much in the air. He is not expected to make a decision before free agency begins on Tuesday at 4 pm. 

 

Though the Dolphins feel better about their chances, Arizona and Denver are still considered the favorites. It helps that both teams have more room under the salary cap than Miami, and thus may be able to offer more money or even sign former teammate WR Reggie Wayne, who has openly lobbied to join Manning.

 

If Miami does not sign Manning, the team still plans to pursue Green Bay quarterback Matt Flynn. Miami does not seem worried about losing out on Flynn by waiting on a decision from Manning, as Flynn expects his value to rise once Manning is off the market.