Chicago Bears safety Danieal Manning likely won't receive the contract he's seeking in Chicago, but according to sources he's drawn plenty of interest on the free agent market.
Six teams (three in the NFC, and three in the AFC) reached out to Manning on Tuesday, the first day teams could negotiate with free agents, and two are working to set up visits in the coming days with the unrestricted free agent.
A fifth-year veteran, Manning made arguably the most significant impact of his tenure with the team in 2011 when he contributed 85 tackles, an interception and five pass breakups. The performance came as somewhat of a breakthrough for Manning, who played several positions in the secondary prior to the team finally settling on him at the strong-safety spot.
During a season in which the Bears allowed the second-fewest touchdown passes (14), and gave up multiple touchdowns just twice (best in the league), Manning was just one of five safeties in the NFL who played 75 percent or more of their defensive snaps to not give up a touchdown.
Manning also missed just three tackles, which ranked as second-fewest among other NFL safeties that played 75 percent or more of their team's defensive snaps.
In addition, Manning contributed considerably on special teams as a return man. Since 2008, Manning leads the NFL in kickoff returns of 40 or more yards.
Despite his considerable résumé, it appears the Bears have moved on, even though late last season they tried to re-sign him to a contract averaging $2 million over three years.
Manning couldn't be reached for comment, but in the past has expressed a desire to remain with the Bears. However, sources within the organization indicate the Bears aren't likely to increase their offer from last December, leaving Manning to shop his services elsewhere.
Michael C. Wright covers the Bears for ESPNChicago.com and ESPN 1000.