Canisius alum continues NFL success

By Colin Richey, Sports Editor

Chris Manhertz ‘14 has entered year 10 of his NFL career, finding success with the New York Giants as their blocking tight end.

Despite playing basketball for the Griffs, Manhertz has utilized his 6-foot-6 frame, athleticism and blocking skills to carve out a respectable career, finding roles with the Saints, Panthers, Jaguars, Broncos and Giants over the past decade. 

His second year with the Giants has seen him start two games, catching one pass for seven yards while playing 21% of the offensive snaps and 47% of the special teams snaps for New York. According to Pro Football Focus, Manhertz has posted a 100% blocking efficiency in all four games this season, surrendering zero QB hits, hurries or pressures. 

The 33-year-old tight end graduated from Canisius in 2014 after a successful career with the men’s basketball program, where he averaged 15 points, four assists and 35 minutes per game during his senior year, according to gogriffs.com. He was also a three-year captain for the Golden Griffins. 

Manhertz is one of just 16 alumni to play in the NFL, and the first since 1987. He holds the record for the longest tenure of an NFL player from Canisius with his 10 seasons, according to Pro Football Reference. 

Photo courtesy of Icon Sportswire