“Edge-Setter” In The House
April 25th, 2014
At 6-7, 280 pounds with next to no fat on him, new Bucs tight end Steve Maneri can’t help but stand out in the Bucs locker room.
It’s easy to see how he had no problem bulking up and playing tackle for the Texans, Patriots and Chiefs before switching back to tight end in Kansas City, where he took great pride in his 2012 role.
And Joe’s heart is warmed by Maneri’s attitude. Maneri can’t wait to hit people.
“I’m a tough guy. I’m here to help in the run game and take care of their best guy on the defense on the edge. I’m going to be an edge-setter like I was two years ago for Jamaal Charles with the Chiefs,” Maneri said. “That’s my goal here, to block for [Doug] and the running backs.”
Charles gained 1,509 yards in 2012, averaging 5.3 yards per carry.
Maneri was with the Bears last season and heard plenty of great things about Lovie Smith. That, he said, is why he signed so quickly with the Bucs in February. Maneri also liked his chances to fit in as a blocking tight end.
Given the mystery surrounding Jeff Tedford’s offense, Maneri’s chances of making the roster are unclear.
However, if the Bucs want a blocking tight end, Maneri surely appears to be the lead dog in that race. Blocking is not the strength of Brandon Myers or Tim Wright, and Tom Crabtree and Luke Stocker have been plagued by injuries.
April 25th, 2014 at 2:06 pm
Have at it….hit some people!!!
April 25th, 2014 at 2:17 pm
given how thin we are on OL at present, it’s also possible that he’s on the shortlist as a primary backup at both tackle spots at this point. i’m figuring we remedy that in a couple weeks at the draft, but right now i’m not sure who comes in if dotson or collins can’t play
April 25th, 2014 at 2:54 pm
That edge does need to be set. @joe did you see the video of Johnny making passes blind folded
April 25th, 2014 at 2:58 pm
Quality of your content improved recently Joe! Thank you!
Appreciate it, but keep in mind Joe has not made any changes. Whatever you may not like is sure to return. –Joe
April 25th, 2014 at 3:11 pm
Good point Pick6 about being an emergency tackle. Maybe the lead blocker in goal line work too. Versatility is key with Sunday’s short roster.
April 25th, 2014 at 3:14 pm
I think we fret too much now about the O-Line. Lovie seems to be giddy about the state of the Bucs at this time. We forget that Doug Martin had a monster year and Freeman set club records with Jamon Meredith at right guard in 2012. I’ve heard that they’re high on up-and-comer OG Patrick Omameh and I’m pretty sure they get a good OG in the draft or second FA after the draft. If we’re sitting where we are right now on opening day, I too would be concerned!
April 25th, 2014 at 3:25 pm
2 tight end set
April 25th, 2014 at 3:26 pm
He is Lorig’s replacement.
He’s bigger, and Doug could hide behind him.
April 25th, 2014 at 3:34 pm
“did you see the video of Johnny making passes blind folded”…..yea the little man is practicing for his view behind an NFL O-line.
April 25th, 2014 at 3:36 pm
As for Steve “edge” Maneri, about time we get a blocking TE!!
April 25th, 2014 at 3:56 pm
He showed he can catch balls during camp. Can be third TE/backup oliñeman.
April 25th, 2014 at 5:04 pm
Is Locker on IR yet?
April 25th, 2014 at 5:04 pm
Put Tim Wright in the slot. How is this guy as a receiver ?
April 25th, 2014 at 5:33 pm
Well, Maneri sounds great by this article but the funny thing if he was so good why would he have been on 4 different teams in 5 years and in 5 years only play in 23 games. Just food for thought.
April 25th, 2014 at 6:24 pm
So…that leaves only 2 othe TE’s…..chat on !
April 25th, 2014 at 9:24 pm
Stocker is as good as gone. Wright, Maneri and Crabtree will fight it out for the last 2 spots
April 26th, 2014 at 2:20 am
Knowing Maneri can also backup our Tackles tells me won’t need to waste any top picks on OL. I like the experience and multiple talents that Maneri brings to the Bucs!
April 26th, 2014 at 8:05 am
MG8 made Wright a star
April 26th, 2014 at 9:31 am
Myers, wright, Crabtree, maneri. We won’t be drafting a TE high in the draft, don’t need one, and where on the roster would they fit? 1 of the above will have to be cut already.
April 26th, 2014 at 11:04 am
Ahhh. More beef on offense. I like it.