Sports News Southwest

The Chargers announced Friday that the club has agreed to terms on a new contract with tight end Brandon Manumaleuna that will keep the seventh-year pro in San Diego through the 2009 season. His original contract was set to expire following the 2008 campaign. 

 

"Brandon’s ability to contribute in both the run game and the passing game were key to our success in 2006," General Manager A.J. Smith said. "He's an extremely talented blocker but showed last year that he can make a tough catch when we need him to. We're thrilled to have him locked up for another year."

 

The Chargers acquired the 6-2, 288-pound Manumaleuna from the St. Louis Rams last April in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick. In his first season as a Charger, Manumaleuna caught 14 passes for 91 yards and three touchdowns, including two in the Bolts’ thrilling come-from-behind win at Cincinnati in Week 10. His five-yard scoring catch with 2:37 remaining in the fourth quarter proved to be the game winner as the Chargers erased a 28-7 halftime deficit. 

 

In addition to his heroics at Cincinnati, Manumaleuna was a consistent rock for the Chargers offensively. His accomplished run blocking skills helped the Bolts gain 2,578 yards on the ground, second most in the NFL last season. He was also lauded for his help in pass protection.

 

With Manumaleuna’s new deal, the Chargers now have 28 players under contract through at least the 2009 season.