A long-time core member of the Chicago Bears’ special teams unit is coming back.
Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports the team has re-signed cornerback/special teams ace Sherrick McManis. The deal is a two-year pact for a player whose 269 special teams snaps led the team in 2017.
McManis’ return means the Northwestern University product maintains his status as the team’s longest-tenured player. The Bears acquired McManis on August 31, 2012, in a trade that sent fullback Tyler Clutts to the Houston Texans. Once the games get started, McManis will be playing for his fourth head coach in what will be his seventh season in Chicago.
By re-signing with the team, McManis becomes the only team captain from 2017 to return for 2018.
Biggs reports other teams made a run at McManis before he chose to come back to Chicago. His return will be welcomed with open arms, especially after the team lost linebacker Christian Jones in free agency. Jones was a reliable special teams contributor in his own right, but will likely receive an expanded role with the Detroit Lions.
It’s no coincidence that the Bears’ special teams unit gave up some huge returns during McManis’ mid-season absence due to an injury. Hopefully, a fully healthy season from McManis can help make the special teams an area of strength in 2018 under new coordinator Chris Tabor and assistant Brock Olivo.
Remember those few weeks when offensive lineman Kyle Long was the oldest and longest-tenured member of the Bears? Fun times.