Peyton Manning came 'pretty close' to signing with Titans in 2012

Peyton Manning's ties to the state of Tennessee are well known.

In addition to attending the University of Tennessee, Manning has a house in Harrison and spoke Thursday at the Middle Tennessee Sports Awards. After discussing Volunteer football, Manning admitted he came close to finishing his NFL career with the Titans.

"I was pretty close," Manning said when asked if he considered signing with the Titans.

The Titans made made it known they wanted Manning as their quarterback in 2012, but ultimately the Denver Broncos offered a more talented roster for Manning's quest for another Super Bowl.

It's interesting to note the Titans actually finished with a better record than the Broncos in 2011 and had running back Chris Johnson in his prime. Manning may have been able to shepherd that team to a Super Bowl victory instead of Denver.

Manning also shot down a rumor he'd help coach Tennessee's quarterbacks.

"No, I will not be coaching quarterbacks at Tennessee, but I will be the biggest Vols fan this year," Manning said.