Former Bengals DB Danieal Manning Returning to Houston

You have to appreciate stories with not-so-bitter endings.

Cincinnati signed veteran safety Danieal Manning to a one-year deal worth $1.6 million in early April. Manning played 157 snaps during the preseason -- most on defense. He generated a Pro Football Focus score of +3.1, which was second to only Victor Hanson. Of the six passes that he covered against opposing quarterbacks, three were completed for 21 yards receiving. He also picked off a pass against the Indianapolis Colts, returning it for a touchdown.

Yet the Bengals cut him. Call it a numbers game. They wanted seven linebackers and needed to improvise a roster vacancy. However, according to reports, Manning wasn't picking up the "system as quick" as the team had hoped.

Fortunately, Manning's career in the NFL appears to have a continuing storyline.

According to the Houston Chronicle, Manning is expected to return to Houston, where he played for three seasons ('11-'13).

"Rick (Smith) kept his word … if I have an opportunity to come back, he’ll talk," said Manning, referring to the Texans’ general manager. "He did and we came back."

According to the report, Manning's agent, Russel Hicks, told the Houston Chronicle that an agreement was already made in principle, pending a physical.