Thread: Bears showing interest in TE Maneri

Interesting. The roster changes, and potential remaining changes, between now and training camp, are adding up. It's going to be more change than I thought we would have.

LINK to the article

Bears showing interest in TE Maneri


By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter11:31 a.m. CDT, March 18, 2013


The Chicago Bears revamped their tight end position by signing Martellus Bennett last week and now Steve Maneri, a converted offensive tackle, is on the team’s radar.

The Bears are believed to have interest in Maneri, who was not tendered as an exclusive rights free agent by the Kansas City Chiefs after he appeared in 13 games and made eight starts in 2012. Maneri, 6-foot-6, 280 pounds, likely would be a replacement for Matt Spaeth, who was released and signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Maneri was an undrafted free agent in 2010 from Temple when he signed with the Houston Texans. He also spent time with the New England Patriots and made his way to the Chiefs in 2011.
In Kansas City, he was converted to tight end last offseason and excelled in a role as a blocker, which is what the Bears had Spaeth on the roster to do. Maneri, 24, made five receptions for 51 yards last season. He has appeared in 19 games and has nine career starts.

Bennett topped the Bears’ want list because of his ability to be a contributor in the passing game and block. The Bears are moving Evan Rodriguez, a fourth-round pick last year from Temple, from fullback back to tight end. But the team apparently is seeking a blocking tight end to have in the mix and Maneri could fill that role.

The Cincinnati Bengals have expressed interest in Maneri, but they also have been linked to ex-Bears tight end Kellen Davis. Spaeth also visited Cincinnati.

The Bears also have Kyle Adams, Brody Eldridge, Gabe Miller and Fendi Onobun under contract at the position. Adams has appeared in 23 games the past two seasons, primarily on special teams. Adams had 168 offensive snaps last season.