One of the biggest issues facing the Chicago Bears this offseason is the status of free-agent-to-be cornerback, Bryce Callahan.
Callahan is widely regarded as one of the top slot corners in the NFL and was having the best season of his career before a foot injury forced him to injured reserve in December.
With Callahan out of the lineup, the Bears turned to career reserve Sherrick McManis, who quickly established himself as a player worthy of starter’s consideration.
McManis played the second-most snaps of his seven-year career and earned his highest single-season grade from Pro Football Focus.
He was also named one of the players PFF wants to see more of in 2019.
McManis, after playing well as a fourth corner and a special teamer, was thrust into action after Bryce Callahan, one of the best slot corners in the NFL, broke his leg in Week 14. As his replacement, the 31-year-old did an admirable job, only allowing a 60.4 passer rating in his three weeks as the team’s primary slot corner. It will be interesting to see if McManis can replicate his late-season success against the slot going forward.
McManis will be in a contract year next season and if the Bears let Callahan leave town, McManis will have a late-career opportunity to cash in as a critical piece of Chicago’s championship-caliber defense.
