The Bears tried to re-sign safety Danieal Manning before he became one of the team’s key free agents.
Michael C. Wright and Jeff Dickerson of ESPNChicago.com report Manning was offered $6 million over three seasons, including $2 million guaranteed during the 2010 season.
He rejected the proposal and will now be given an “original pick” restricted free agent tender by the team. That tender may wind up meaning nothing after a new CBA is reached, but the Bears are just covering their bases.
Manning has finished five seasons, so it’s likely he’ll be an unrestricted free agent after a work stoppage.