Jan 13, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez (81) is pursued by Houston Texans safety Daniel Manning (38) in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Texans 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Texans have released Danieal Manning, according to Adam Schefter.
Texans release S Danieal Manning, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 31, 2014
Manning missed most of last season with a hyperextended knee. In the six games he did play, he had a 60.4 QB rating against and an 8.0 tackling efficiency. In 2012 Manning had a 12.0 tackling efficiency (10.0 against the pass) and a -2.2 PFF grade against the pass.
Kansas City could use some depth at safety after losing Kendrick Lewis and Quintin Demps to free agency. Husain Abdullah and Sanders Commings appear to be the two players battling for the free safety spot so adding Manning into the mix should improve the competition.
The Chiefs like to put multiple safeties on the field on passing downs, and will occasionally move Eric Berry to an inside linebacker spot in order to improve their coverage and pass rush in their base 3-4 defense. This makes safety depth even more crucial. Manning has experience playing both free safety and strong safety so he is a versatile player who could handle being moved around.
It should be noted Manning is from the Dallas area and is a big Cowboys fan so the Chiefs could have competition there should they decide to pursue Manning.