Sherrick McManis, a professional football player, spent a decade in the National Football League (NFL) primarily known for his role on special teams and as a cornerback. Born on December 19, 1987, in Peoria, Illinois, McManis attended Richwoods High School, where he excelled in both football and track. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to Northwestern University, where he played college football for the Wildcats.
During his time at Northwestern, McManis developed a reputation for his defensive skills and special teams play. He was a consistent performer, contributing significantly to the Wildcats' defense. His college career culminated in being named to the All-Big Ten team, which caught the attention of NFL scouts.
In the 2010 NFL Draft, the Houston Texans selected McManis in the fifth round. He spent his rookie season with the Texans, where he began to establish himself as a reliable special teams player. Despite limited opportunities in the defensive backfield, McManis made the most of his time on the field, showcasing his speed and tackling ability.
In 2012, McManis was traded to the Chicago Bears, a move that would define the majority of his professional career. With the Bears, he found a niche as a special teams ace, becoming one of the team's most dependable players in that unit. His ability to make crucial tackles and his knack for being around the ball made him a valuable asset to the Bears' special teams coordinator.
Throughout his tenure with the Bears, McManis occasionally contributed as a cornerback, stepping in when injuries plagued the team's secondary. While he was not a regular starter on defense, his versatility allowed him to fill various roles when called upon. His adaptability and team-first mentality earned him respect in the locker room and among the coaching staff.
McManis's performance on special teams did not go unnoticed. In 2016, he was named the Bears' special teams captain, a role he held for several seasons. His leadership and experience were instrumental in mentoring younger players and maintaining a high standard of play within the unit.
Injuries occasionally hampered McManis's career, but he consistently returned to the field, demonstrating his reliability and work ethic. Over the years, he became a fan favorite in Chicago, admired for his hustle and determination on every play.
By the end of his career, McManis had played in over 120 NFL games, primarily with the Bears. His contributions to the team were recognized when he was named the recipient of the Brian Piccolo Award in 2016, an honor given to a Bears player who best exemplifies the courage, loyalty, teamwork, dedication, and sense of humor of the late Brian Piccolo.
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